Orthodontic assembly

ABSTRACT

A removable orthodontic assembly to be used in a user&#39;s mouth, including: a frame member configured to be removably positioned proximate a lingual portion of the user&#39;s teeth; a first connector member, wherein the first connector member comprises a first end extending proximate to a labial portion of the user&#39;s teeth and a second end engaging the frame member; and a labial bow configured to be removably positioned proximate to the labial portion of the user&#39;s teeth having a first end and a second end, wherein the labial bow is configured to removably engage the first connector member.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of PCT patent applicationnumber PCT/US2016/055773, filed Oct. 6, 2016, which claims priority U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/879,555, filed Oct. 9, 2015, all of whichare incorporated for all purposes by reference herein. This applicationalso claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent application No.62/548,246 filed Aug. 21, 2017, which is incorporated for all purposesby reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention generally relates to a novel orthodontic assembly. Moreparticularly, the invention relates to an orthodontic assembly having aversatile configuration including interchangeable and flexiblecomponents for causing tooth movement, bite correction and/or toothposition retention, while providing enhanced user comfort.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional orthodontic treatments are generally comprised of eitherfixed or removable components. Typically, the fixed components arebonded or cemented directly to the user's teeth, and a wire is insertedinto brackets of the components and secured using elastomeric ties. Thewire is usually bendable and may be distorted during the installationand adjustment process by the installer, which is typically anorthodontist or dental practitioner.

As the wire is adjusted into its original shape, the wire exerts a forceon the connected tooth or teeth leading to teeth movement. In general,the force applied on teeth with the fixed orthodontic treatment isexerted only by the limited contact of the bracket, which in turn limitsthe contact forces exerted between the wire and the tooth. As such, inorder to properly align the teeth using the fixed orthodontic treatmentprocess, a series of wires are inserted into the brackets connected tothe teeth.

The wire insertion process is typically initiated by inserting the mostflexible wire first, and then inserting additional wires, graduallyincreasing the rigidity of the wire inserted into the brackets, therebymoving the teeth into the selected alignment.

One disadvantage of the above-described method is that the single rootedteeth, or the teeth with shorter roots, have a propensity to move firstand flare forward, prior to the time of insertion of the more rigidwires, which tend to act on the posterior teeth to expand the arch (asin the cases of crowding). Further, when the wire is inserted into thearch, all of the teeth move simultaneously. As a result, treatment of asingle tooth or a limited number of teeth is difficult to achievewithout inadvertently exerting unwanted forces on teeth that are nottargeted for treatment. Moreover, it is difficult to apply specific anddifferent level forces on different teeth at the same time.

Additional problems with a fixed component orthodontic system may becompounded by poor patient oral hygiene and the inherent difficulties ofbrushing and flossing teeth with a fixed orthodontic system applied tothe tooth. Poor oral hygiene may lead to white spots (decalcifications)appearing around the brackets or degeneration of periodontal tissuesurrounding and supporting the teeth Consequently, inflamed gingiva,recession, or irreversible bone loss can occur during orthodontictreatment.

Furthermore, many patients do not like wearing the fixed orthodonticsystem because of the associated difficulties of chewing and eatingand/or because of the undesirable aesthetics.

Removable orthodontic systems used to align the teeth are generallytraditional spring acrylic retainers or clear shells that cover theentire surfaces of the teeth, similar to Invisalign®.

The acrylic spring retainers are generally composed of an acrylic frameand wires bent into a predetermined configuration and insertedpermanently into the frame at the time of fabrication, where one or morewire components can be adjusted to apply a force on the tooth for toothmovement

The disadvantages of the acrylic spring retainers include, but are notlimited to, the following: The fabrication process is prolonged anddifficult, especially as related to the fabrication and incorporation ofsmaller parts into the frame assembly. The size and thickness of thespring retainer can result in discomfort for the user and impede theuser's speech. For practitioners, the acrylic spring retainers are oflimited utility because they are generally limited to use on a smallnumber of anterior teeth and they have limited capability to align theteeth.

Clear shell aligners are also removable appliances used to align theteeth that are of uniform thickness, cover the entire surface of theteeth, and must be changed with each subsequent movement of teeth.

The disadvantages of the clear shell aligners include, but are notlimited to, the following: The user may experience discomfort becausethe aligners cover the entire surface of the teeth and the aligners maydiscolor with use, resulting in an unpleasant appearance. The uniformityof the clear shell aligners precludes application of deferential andprecise force on specific teeth. For example, because of this, it isdifficult to accomplish expansion of the arch successfully.

SUMMARY

In light of the present need for an orthodontic assembly to facilitatetooth movement and/or bite correction, a brief summary of variousexemplary embodiments is presented. Some simplifications and omissionsmay be made in the following summary, which is intended to highlight andintroduce some aspects of the various exemplary embodiments, but not tolimit the scope of the invention. Detailed descriptions of a preferredexemplary embodiment adequate to allow those of ordinary skill in theart to make and use the inventive concepts will follow in latersections.

Various embodiments relate to a removable orthodontic assembly to beused in a user's mouth, including: a frame member configured to beremovably positioned proximate a lingual portion of the user's teeth; afirst connector member, wherein the first connector member comprises afirst end extending proximate to a labial portion of the user's teethand a second end engaging the frame member; and a labial bow configuredto be removably positioned proximate to the labial portion of the user'steeth having a first end and a second end, wherein the labial bow isconfigured to removably engage the first connector member.

Various embodiments are described, wherein the first connector member isan orthodontic clip configured to removably clip to the frame using asnap-fit connection.

Various embodiments are described, wherein the first connector member isformed integrally as part of the frame.

Various embodiments are described, wherein the second end of the firstconnector member includes a C-shaped head configured to engage the frameand the first end of the first connector member includes a C-shaped headconfigured to be removably connected to the labial bow.

Various embodiments are described, wherein the first end of the firstconnector member includes a C-shaped head configured to connect to thelabial bow and the second end of the first connector member includes aC-shaped head configured to removably clip to the frame.

Various embodiments are described, wherein, the first end of the labialbow includes a first opening, a second opening, and an open slotconnecting the first opening and the second opening, wherein the secondopening is smaller than the first opening, and the first end of thefirst connector member has a fastener including a knob sized to besmaller than the first opening but larger than the second opening and abridge configured to connect the knob to the connector member andwherein the bridge is sized to slide through open slot of the firstconnector member.

Various embodiments are described, further including a block memberconfigured to be placed in the first opening.

Various embodiments are described, wherein, the first end of the firstconnector member includes a first opening, a second opening, and an openslot connecting the first opening and the second opening, wherein thesecond opening is smaller than the first opening, and the first end ofthe labial bow has a fastener including a knob sized to be smaller thanthe first opening but larger than the second opening and a bridgeconfigured to connect the knob to the labial bow and wherein the bridgeis sized to slide through open slot of the first connector member.

Various embodiments are described, wherein, the first end of the labialbow includes an elongated opening, wherein the elongated opening has afirst width and a second width, wherein the first width is greater thanthe second width, the first end of the first connector member comprisinga fastener including an elongated knob and a bridge configured toconnect the knob to the first connector member, and the elongated knobhas a third width and a fourth width and wherein the third width isgreater than the fourth width, the third width is less than the firstwidth but greater than the second width.

Various embodiments are described, wherein the first end of the labialbow member has a groove configured to capture and lock the first end ofthe first connector member when the labial bow is connected to the firstconnector member.

Various embodiments are described, wherein, the first end of the firstconnector member includes an elongated opening, wherein the elongatedopening has a first width and a second width, wherein the first width isgreater than the second width, the first end of the labial bow has afastener including an elongated knob and a bridge configured to connectthe knob to the labial bow, and the elongated knob has a third width anda fourth width and wherein the third width is greater than the fourthwidth, the third width is less than the first width but greater than thesecond width.

Various embodiments are described, wherein the first end of the firstconnector member has a groove configured to capture and lock the labialbow to the first connector member when the labial bow is connected tothe first connector member.

Various embodiments are described, wherein the labial bow furthercomprises extensions configured to engage a tooth.

Various embodiments are described, wherein, the first connector memberfurther includes: a rod; and a C-shaped sliding member including aC-shaped body; a first locking extension and a second locking extensionextending from the C-shaped body, wherein the first locking extensionand the second locking extension extend towards one another; and anopening, wherein the opening is configured to receive the rod; whereinthe first end of the first end of the labial bow further includes: afirst locking block and a second locking block extending away fromlabial bow; and a first opening adjacent the first locking block and asecond opening adjacent the second locking block; wherein C-shapedsliding member is configured to engage the labial bow by placing thefirst locking extension and the second locking extension through thefirst and second openings of the C-shaped locking member and thensliding the C-shaped sliding member so that the first locking extensionand the second locking extension engage the first locking block andsecond locking block.

Various embodiments are described, wherein, the first locking memberfurther comprises a board member extending from the C-shaped body with aboard extension extending in a direction towards the labial bow, and thelabial bow further comprises an opening configured to receive the boardextension.

Various embodiments are described, wherein, the frame member furtherincludes an end configured to connect to the first connector memberfurther including: a first half-arrow portion extending from the end ofthe frame member including a first slot; a second half-arrow portionextending from the end of the frame member including a second slot; andan opening between the first half-arrow portion and the second halfarrow portion, and the second end of the first connector member isconfigured to connect to the frame, including: a first prong including afirst protrusion, a second protrusion, and third protrusion, wherein thefirst protrusion is at the proximal end and the first protrusion and thesecond protrusion are configured to receive the frame therebetween; asecond prong including a fourth protrusion, a fifth protrusion, andsixth protrusion, wherein the fourth protrusion is at the proximal endand the fourth protrusion and the fifth protrusion are configured toreceive the frame therebetween, and the third protrusion is configuredto engage the first slot and the sixth protrusion is configured toengage the second slot when the frame member and first connector memberare slid together so that the frame member and first locking member aresecurely fastened to one another.

Various embodiments are described, further including a block memberconfigured to be placed in the opening between the first half-arrowportion and the second half arrow portion.

Various further embodiments relate to a removable orthodontic assemblyto be used in a user's mouth, including: a frame member configured to beremovably positioned proximate a lingual portion of the user's teeth; afirst connector member, wherein the first connector member includes afirst end extending proximate to a labial portion of the user's teethand a second end engaging the frame member; and a labial bow configuredto be removably positioned proximate to the labial portion of the user'steeth having a first end and a second end, wherein the labial bow isconfigured to removably engage the first connector member; and a firstclip member including: a base portion configured to attach to the framemember; and a first head connected to the first base portion andconfigured to removably engage a tooth.

Various embodiments are described, wherein the head includes an elasticporous pad configured to engage the tooth and to apply the force to thetooth.

Various embodiments are described, wherein the head removably clips tothe first base portion.

Various embodiments are described, wherein first base portion includesan opening configured to engage a frame extension.

Various embodiments are described, wherein comprising a screw andwherein the first base portion further comprises an extension configuredto engage an opening in the frame and to receive the screw.

Various embodiments are described, wherein comprising a screw andwherein the first base portion further comprises an opening aligned withan opening in the frame to receive the screw.

Various embodiments are described, wherein comprising a second baseportion removably engaging the first base portion and the frame, with afirst opening, a pin, and a fastening member, wherein the first baseportion further comprises a first opening configured to align with afirst opening in the frame and the first opening in the second baseportion and configured to receive the pin therethrough and wherein thefastening member is configured to engage a portion of the pin extendingthrough the first opening in the frame to secure the first base portionand the second base portion to the frame.

Various embodiments are described, wherein the first base portionfurther comprises a first extension configured to engage a secondopening in the frame and wherein the first base portion furthercomprises a second extension configured to engage a second opening inthe second base portion.

Various embodiments are described, further including a second baseportion removably engaging the first base portion and the frame, with anopening, and a C-shaped clip, wherein the first base portion includes afirst extension configured to engage the opening in the second baseportion and a second extension configured to engage an opening in theframe member, and wherein the C-shaped clip is configured to engage thesecond base portion and the frame to secure the first base portion andthe second base portion to the frame.

Various embodiments are described, wherein the first base portionfurther includes: an extension in the vertical direction configured toengage a vertical opening in the frame; and a first fastening member anda second fastening member on opposite sides of the first base portionextension, wherein the first fastening member and second fasteningmember cooperatively engage the frame member to secure the orthodonticclip to the frame.

Various embodiments are described, wherein the first base portionextension further comprises a serrated surface configured to engage acorresponding serrated surface in the vertical opening in the frame.

Various embodiments are described, wherein, the frame member comprises atapered part having a first section with a first elastic property and asecond distal end section with a second elastic property providingdifferent elasticity to the tapered part of the frame configured toengage the tooth.

Various embodiments are described, wherein the first base portionfurther comprises:

a C-shaped section; and first bottom extension and a second bottomextension, wherein the C-shaped section, first bottom extension, andsecond bottom extension are configured to engage an opening in a rigidportion of the frame; the head further includes: bar extending in avertical direction; and sliding portion configured to slide along thebar and to engage a flexible portion of the frame configured to engagethe tooth and apply a force to the tooth.

Further various embodiments include an orthodontic assembly to be usedin a user's mouth, includes a frame member configured to be removablypositioned proximate the lingual portion of the user's teeth including afastening mechanism, and an interchangeable clip member configured to beremovably affixed to the frame member such that the clip member engagesat least one of the user's teeth. The fastening mechanism is configuredto cooperatively engage the clip member such that the clip member may beremovably affixed to the frame member.

In various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the frame member hasa rigid portion configured to engage an inner portion of the user'smouth and a portion configured to engage at least one of the user'steeth.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the framemember includes a first rigid portion, a second portion, and a flexibleintermediate portion provided intermediate to the first rigid portionand the second portion to provide flexibility to the frame member. Theintermediate portion may have a flexible c-shaped cross-sectionconfigured to provide flexibility to the frame member.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the framemember includes a rigid portion having a first track member and a secondtrack member in spaced relation to each other. The first track memberand second track member each extend along an inner portion of the user'smouth and are cooperatively configured to operatively engage one or moreclip members.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the framemember includes a first portion configured to engage a first lingualportion of the user's teeth, a second portion configured to engage asecond lingual portion of the users' teeth and an adjustment memberprovided intermediate to the first and second portion to apply a forceintermediate to the first and second portion to facilitate expanding thepalate.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the framemember includes one or more tab members that extend from an innerportion of the frame member, permitting the frame member to be removablyfastened to fixed screws inserted in the user's mouth.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember includes a first portion configured to engage the frame memberand a second portion configured to engage one or more of the user'steeth.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember includes a portion configured to operatively engage the framemember and a flexible portion configured to operatively engage the toothto facilitate tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember includes a retentive member configured to engage a portion of oneor more of the user's teeth.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember includes a first portion configured to engage a lingual portionof the user's tooth and a second portion configured to engage a buccalportion of the user's tooth.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember includes a governing portion that cooperatively engages a lingualportion and an occlusal portion of the user's tooth to facilitate bitecorrection and tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the firstclip member includes a fastening portion that removably cooperativelyconnects to the frame member and second clip member, and a governingportion that extends over the occlusal surface to the buccal surface ofthe user's tooth to facilitate bite correction and tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, theorthodontic assembly further includes a bonded member fastened to atleast one tooth, the bonded member configured to cooperatively engagethe clip member such that the clip member and connected frame member maybe removably affixed to the bonded member, so as to facilitate toothmovement and retention.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, theorthodontic assembly further is operatively connected to the framemember and engages two or more teeth to facilitate tooth movement orretention.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember has an engagement portion which includes a first flexiblevertical wavelike member and a second flexible vertical wavelike membersjoined in a middle section to facilitate tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember has a flexible engagement portion that includes a plurality offlexible extension members and bristles that extend from the clip toengage and facilitate tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, theorthodontic assembly further includes a labial bow member that extendsalong an outer portion of the users' teeth and configured to operativelyengage a first clip member connected to a first side of the orthodonticassembly and a second clip member connected to an opposing second sideof the orthodontic assembly.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, theorthodontic assembly includes at least two clip members, each includingan outer lip portion including a locking portion configured toreceivably engage a corresponding inner edge of the labial bow member.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember is removably fastenable to an outer portion of the frame member.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember is removably fastenable to an inner portion of the first trackmember and second track member of the frame member.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, theorthodontic assembly, further includes a band member configured toreceive a tooth member therein, the banded member configured tocooperatively engage the clip member such that the clip member andconnected frame member may be removably affixed to the banded member, soas to facilitate tooth movement and retention

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the framemember is positioned proximate to the palatal portion of the user'steeth and the clip member fastenably engages a receiving portion of theframe member and includes a ramp portion configured to engage theopposing teeth in the mouth to facilitate bite correction.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember includes an elastomeric pre-loaded biasing member configured tooperatively engage at least one tooth to effectuate tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, anadjustment member includes a clip with a flexible biasing memberconfigured to exert a force on the first portion and second portion ofthe frame member so as to facilitate expanding the palate.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, an upperassembly includes at least one clip member with a first hook extendingin a first direction and a lower assembly includes at least one clipmember with a second hook extending in an opposing second direction ofthe first hook, wherein the first hook and second hook are operativelyconnected with at least one biasing member so as to facilitate bitecorrection and tooth movement.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember is provided intermediate to the frame member and user's tooth.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the framemember is configured and manufactured to fit in a selected user's mouthvia 3-D printing.

In further various embodiments of the orthodontic assembly, the clipmember is configured and manufactured to engage the frame member andtooth via 3-D printing.

In light of the present need for a versatile orthodontic componentassembly, a brief summary of various exemplary embodiments is presented.Some simplifications and omissions may be made in the following summary,which is intended to highlight and introduce some aspects of the variousexemplary embodiments, but not to limit the scope of the invention.Detailed descriptions of a preferred exemplary embodiment adequate toallow those of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the inventiveconcepts will follow in later sections.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is an environmental occlusal view of a user's mouth, showing aframe member of an orthodontic assembly positioned about the lingualsurface of the user's teeth;

FIG. 1B is an environmental occlusal view of a user's mouth illustratingthe orthodontic assembly including the frame member having intermediateportions and a plurality of interchangeable active components andremovable clip members operatively engaged with the frame member;

FIG. 1C is a side cross-sectional view of the frame member of FIG. 1B,including an intermediate flexible C-shaped portion provided along acentral portion of the frame member;

FIG. 1D is a side cross-sectional view of the frame member of FIG. 1B,illustrating an intermediate flexible helical coil shaped portionprovided along a central portion of the frame member;

FIG. 1E is an environmental internal view of the frame member of FIG.1B, illustrating an intermediate sinusoidal shaped portion providedalong a central portion of the frame member;

FIG. 1F is an environmental internal view of the frame member of FIG.1B, illustrating an intermediate vertical wave-like configurationprovided along a central portion of the frame member;

FIG. 1G is a side cross-sectional view of the frame member of FIG. 1B,illustrating an intermediate rotating hinge portion provided between twoportions of the frame;

FIG. 2A is an environmental internal view of the orthodontic assemblyincluding the frame member of FIG. 1B and a variety of clip memberconfigurations operatively engaged with a lingual surface of the user'steeth in a first position;

FIG. 2B is a side cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 2A and clip member, including a flexible intermediate component;

FIG. 2C is a side cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 2A illustrating the clip and screw member fastened to the framemember and operatively engaged with a lingual portion of the user'stooth in a first position;

FIG. 2D is a side cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 2A operatively engaged with a lingual portion of the user's toothshowing the tooth moved into a second position;

FIG. 2E is a side cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 2A illustrating a clip member having bristle shaped pads componentsengaged with a tooth;

FIG. 2F is a side cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 2A illustrating a clip member having a flexible configurationengaged with a tooth;

FIG. 2G is an environmental internal view of the orthodontic assemblyincluding the frame member of FIG. 1B and a first and second clipmember, wherein the first clip member engages a tooth surface and asecond clip member, the second clip member engages a first clip memberand a frame;

FIG. 2H is a side cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 2G; FIG. 2I is a top occlusal view of the orthodontic assemblyincluding a labial bow member and clip member of FIG. 1B illustratingclip and labial bow members having curved bristle shaped pads componentsin operative engagement with a tooth;

FIG. 2J is a top occlusal view of the orthodontic assembly including alabial bow member and clip member of FIG. 1B illustrating clip andlabial bow members having suction cup components in active engagementwith a tooth;

FIG. 2K is a cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 2Aincluding extrusion from the frame extending throughout and into theouter surface of the clip;

FIG. 2L is a cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 2Aincluding first extrusion from the clip into part of the width of theframe and second extrusion from the clip throughout and into the outersurface of the frame and fixed into a screw;

FIG. 2M is a cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 2Aincluding first clip member in active engagement with second clip andframe members of the assembly. The first clip member is positionedbetween a frame and a second clip and is fastened by additional fastenerpin and cap extending into the frame member, first clip member andsecond clip member;

FIG. 2N is a cross sectional, view of the orthodontic assembly of FIG.2A including first clip member with extrusions in active engagement witha second clip member and a frame member of the assembly and is fastenedby an additional C-shaped fastener clip;

FIG. 2O is a cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 2Aincluding a clip member in active engagement with an opening in theframe;

FIG. 2P is a cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 2Aincluding first clip member in active engagement with an opening in asecond clip member and a second clip member in active engagement in anopening in the frame member of the assembly;

FIG. 2Q is a side view of the C-shaped first clip member of the assemblyin active engagement with the second clip of the assembly and the frame;

FIG. 2R is a cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIG. 2Q with thefirst clip member in active engagement with the frame member;

FIG. 2S is a cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIG. 2Q with thefirst clip member in active engagement with frame member and third clipmember;

FIG. 2T is a cross sectional view of the assembly with C shapeintermediate flexible C shape portion and elastic porous pads in activeengagement with the tooth;

FIG. 2U is an environmental internal view of the orthodontic assemblyincluding the frame member of FIG. 1B and a clip member configuration tooperatively engage with a preconfigured parts in the assembly;

FIG. 2 V is another view of the clip of the FIG. 2U with different headdesigns;

FIG. 2W is an environmental internal view of the orthodontic assemblyincluding the frame member of FIG. 1B and an adjustable clip memberconfiguration operatively engaging a preconfigured parts of theassembly;

FIG. 2X is a cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIG. 2W with anadjustable clip member in active engagement with preconfigured parts inthe assembly and a tapered part of the frame with different materialproperty engaging the tooth surface;

FIG. 3A is a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of theorthodontic assembly, illustrating the frame member and clip memberengaged with an over layer of clear shell component covering both frameand clip members and extends to the buccal surface of the tooth toenhance the tooth alignment and retention;

FIG. 3B is a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of theorthodontic assembly, illustrating the frame member and clip member inoperative engagement with the lingual surface and incisal edge of theuser's tooth;

FIG. 4A is an environmental side sectional view of the clip member ofthe orthodontic assembly covering the occlusal surface of the teeth, forfacilitating tooth movement and bite alignment;

FIG. 4B is an environmental side sectional view of the clip membercovering the occlusal surface of the teeth for facilitating teethmovement and bite alignment;

FIG. 4C is top occlusal view of the orthodontic assembly and clip memberof FIG. 4A, illustrating the governing portion extending over the toothto facilitate teeth movement and bite alignment;

FIG. 5A is a side cross-sectional view of another embodiment of theorthodontic assembly including a clip member having a contoured C-shapedconfiguration with a flexible portion operatively engaging an undercutof the lingual portion of the user's tooth;

FIG. 5B is a lingual side view of the orthodontic assembly and clipmember of FIG. 5 A, engaged with a lingual portion of the toothillustrating a clip member with leaves connected thereto;

FIG. 5C is an occlusal top view of another embodiment of the clip memberof the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 5A illustrating limited contact ofthe flexible part of the clip with the tooth;

FIG. 5D is a side cross-sectional view of FIG. 5C;

FIG. 5E is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the clipmember of the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 5A illustrating a ball andsocket relationship between the stem portion and C-shaped extension;

FIG. 6A is an occlusal partial top view of an embodiment of theorthodontic assembly, illustrating a clip member operatively engagedwith a member in bonded connection with a user's tooth;

FIG. 6B is a side cross sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 6A, illustrating the clip and frame members and bonded member in anoperatively engaged connection;

FIG. 6C is a lingual side view of the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 6Aengaged with the lingual surface of the user's tooth;

FIG. 7A is a top view of another embodiment of the orthodontic assemblyillustrating a bonded member operatively engaged with a tooth;

FIG. 7B is a side cross sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 7A, illustrating a wire member in operative engagement with thebonded member;

FIG. 7C is a side cross sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 7A, illustrating another embodiment of the bonded member;

FIG. 7D is a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of another headof the clip of FIG. 5A of the orthodontic assembly illustrating anotherembodiment of the bonded member in operative engagement with microstructures on a clip member;

FIG. 7E is a lingual view of the bonded member of FIG. 7D;

FIG. 7F is a top view of the bonded member of FIG. 7D;

FIG. 8A is a lingual view of an orthodontic assembly including a bondedmember and clip member having a biasing component for tooth movement andretention;

FIG. 8B is a lingual view of an orthodontic assembly of FIG. 8Aillustrating the biasing component in an extended position;

FIG. 8C is a top view of the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 8D is another embodiment of the orthodontic assembly including abonded member and a wave like biasing member;

FIG. 8E is another embodiment of the orthodontic assembly including abonded component and a wave like biasing member;

FIG. 8F is an occlusal surface view of the bonded member of FIG. 8E;

FIG. 8G is a side cross sectional view of a head of a clip of theorthodontic assembly illustrating concave shaped bonded member inoperative engagement with a suction cup on a clip member;

FIG. 8H is a top occlusal view of the assembly of FIG. 8G;

FIG. 8I is a lingual view of the bonded component of FIG. 8G;

FIG. 9 is an environmental top view of the occlusal surface of a user'smouth illustrating another embodiment of the orthodontic assemblyincluding an embodiment of a track frame member, positioned about thelingual portion of the user's teeth;

FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional side view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 9, illustrating the frame member and clip member operativelyengaged with a tooth;

FIG. 10B is lingual perspective view of the orthodontic assembly of FIG.9 illustrating the clip member with operative engagement with the framemember

FIG. 11A is a lingual perspective view of an embodiment of anorthodontic assembly illustrating the track frame member of FIG. 9 and asliding clip member connected to a biasing member;

FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional side view of the sliding clip member ofFIG. 11A configured for operative engagement with a track frame member;

FIG. 11C is an occlusal environmental view of the orthodontic assemblyof FIG. 11A;

FIG. 11D is a lingual perspective view of an embodiment of anorthodontic assembly illustrating the track frame member of FIG. 11A anda sliding clip member connected to a biasing member using elastic bandsfor tooth movement;

FIG. 11E is an occlusal environmental view of the orthodontic assemblyof FIG. 11D;

FIG. 12A is a cross sectional side view of a pre-loaded biasing clipmember connected to the track frame member of FIG. 9, providing abiasing force on an engaged tooth;

FIG. 12B is an environmental lingual view of the pre-loaded biasing clipmember and frame track member interconnected;

FIG. 13A is a cross sectional side perspective view of an embodiment ofan orthodontic assembly including a clip member engaged with a framemember positioned on a palatal surface for engagement with the lowerincisors to facilitate bite correction.

FIG. 13B is an occlusal top view of the upper palate illustrating theorthodontic assembly and clip member of FIG. 13A positioned in theframe;

FIG. 13C is a lateral, side view of the hooks component originating froma frame or clips on the frame (not shown) of the upper and lower archesand connected with elastic rubber bands for bite correction;

FIG. 13D is a lateral, side view of components originating from a frameor clips on the frame (not shown) of the upper and lower arches andconnected with a spring for bite correction.

FIG. 14A is an environmental top view of an embodiment of an orthodonticassembly provided on a palatal surface of the mouth, including anadjustment member for expanding the palate using a spring clip;

FIG. 14B is an environmental top view of an embodiment of an orthodonticassembly provided on a palatal surface of the mouth for expanding thepalate using a screw clip member;

FIG. 14C is environmental view of a clip member removably insertableinto a portion of the adjustment member of 14A;

FIG. 15A is a frontal view of a labial bow member attached to a specialdesign component;

FIG. 15B is a frontal view of another embodiment of the labial bowmember configured to connect to a special component in FIG. 15A;

FIG. 15C is a frontal view of another embodiment of the labial bowelastic module member configured to connect to a special component inFIG. 15A;

FIG. 15D is a frontal view of another embodiment of the labial bowmember illustrating decorative features;

FIG. 15E is a detailed frontal view of the special configure componentin FIG. 15A and labial bow member connection;

FIG. 15F is an exploded detailed view of the special configure componentand labial bow member connection of FIG. 15E;

FIG. 15G is another embodiment of the orthodontic assembly including alabial bow member assembly;

FIG. 15H is a side cross sectional view of the orthodontic assembly ofFIG. 15G, illustrating the labial bow member and clip member connection;

FIG. 15I is a top sectional view of the orthodontic assembly of 15G,illustrating the labial bow member and the clip member connection;

FIG. 15J is a frontal view of the orthodontic assembly of 15G,illustrating the labial bow member and the clip member connection;

FIG. 15K is a frontal view of another embodiment of the labial bowmember configured with first and second strips, wherein the first andsecond strips connect and separate at predetermined locations;

FIG. 15M is a top occlusal view of an assembly with labial bow clipmember with curved extensions in active engagement with loop and C shapecomponents on a frame or intermediate clip members of the assembly;

FIG. 15L is a side view of the openings of a receiving part of the otherloop component for the connection of labial bow member;

FIG. 15N is a side view of locking component of loop component of thelabial bow member;

FIG. 15O is a top view of FIG. 15N;

FIG. 15P is side view of locking component of C-shaped component forconnection with the labial bow member;

FIG. 15Q is a side view of an opening of another loop component forconnection with the labial bow member of FIG. 15M;

FIG. 15R is a top view of FIG of FIG. 15S;

FIG. 15S is a side view of the locking component of the loop componentof FIG. 15Q of the labial bow member;

FIG. 15T is a side view of the loop component of FIG. 15Q in activeengagement with the locking component of FIG. 15S;

FIG. 15U is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 15T showing a groove in thefront part of the loop component in active engagement with the labialbow component;

FIG. 15V is a side view of a rectangular-shaped opening of a receivingpart of the loop components for the connection of labial bow member;

FIG. 15W is a side view of a rectangular-shaped locking component of theloop component of the labial bow member;

FIG. 15Xa is a side view of another clip member of the assembly of FIG.15M illustrating a modified C-shaped locking clip member;

FIG. 15Xb is a side view of preconfigured part of the frame member forthe sliding connection with the modified C-shaped locking clip of FIG.15Xa;

FIG. 15Xc is a top view of the preconfigured part of the frame memberfor the connection with the modified C-shaped locking clip of the FIG.15Xa;

FIG. 15Xe is a side view of the adjustment tube of the modified C-shapedlocking clip with prism and cylinder shape parts;

FIG. 15Ya is a side view of another clip member of the assembly of FIG.15M illustrating a top-locking clip member;

FIG. 15Yb is a top view of top-locking clip of FIG. 15Ya;

FIG. 15Yc is a front view of the ring of the top-locking clip of FIG.15Yb;

FIG. 15Za is a side view of another clip member of the assembly of FIG.15M illustrating a hinge locking clip member;

FIG. 15Zb is a top view of the hinge locking clip of FIG. 15Za;

FIG. 15Zc is a slide view of a removable second clip of FIG. 15Za forlocking the first clip and frame members of the assembly;

FIG. 15Zd is a side view of another clip member of the assembly of FIG.15M illustrating half-arrow locking clip member;

FIG. 16A is an environmental occlusal view of another embodiment of theorthodontic assembly positioned about the lingual surface of the user'steeth and engaged with a band member for retaining the frame membertherein;

FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of the band member and clip memberand frame member connection;

FIG. 17A is an occlusal view of another embodiment of an orthodonticassembly having a temporary anchorage device supported frame;

FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of a part of the frame member of FIG.17A operatively connected to an inner portion of the user's mouth andtemporary anchorage device;

FIG. 18A is an occlusal view of an aligner with bristles, suction cups,bonded components, and support structures in operative engagement withmultiple teeth;

FIG. 18B is lingual side view of an aligner with mesh, U shape cuts andgrid shape surface;

FIG. 18C is a side cross sectional view of an aligner with bristles,support structures, and a modified top part; and

FIG. 18D illustrates a sleeve design with bristles for the intra oralpart of a vibrating device and a vibrating device.

To facilitate understanding, identical reference numerals have been usedto designate elements having substantially the same or similar structureand/or substantially the same or similar function.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As previously discussed, conventional fixed orthodontic assemblies areundesirable esthetically; pose difficulties for the user to maintaingood oral hygiene; and do not provide the precision and customizationneeded to selectively exert a force on a tooth, or group of teeth. Oneof the inherent disadvantages to existing removable appliances relatesto the difficulty of fabrication and limitations related to theapplication of force on the teeth, as discussed previously. Accordingly,it is desirable to use a removable orthodontic assembly that is notuniform in its construction and application of force on the teeth. Sucha removable orthodontic assembly provides an esthetic alternative to afixed orthodontic assembly in that it can be removed from the mouth topermit proper oral hygiene care or removed for limited periods of timefor the user's esthetic preferences (for example, when attending aformal event). When configured with versatile flexible components, aremovable orthodontic assembly can exert precise force on one or moreselected teeth and reduce the force exerted on teeth excluded fromtreatment. The components can be changed with subsequent movement of theteeth and/or changes to the bite without the need to replace the entireappliance.

It is also desirable to have a removable retainer assembly with flexiblecomponents that is incorporated into the frame assembly. Such anassembly can be used to allow desirable teeth settling following fixedorthodontic treatment and to regain minor tooth movement as teeth shiftand relapse to an undesirable position due to poor retainer wear by theuser.

3-D printing of embodiments of the orthodontic assembly providesversatility with one or more interchangeable clip members which mayinclude the combination of a single extension, plural extensions,bristles pads, rests, clasps, occlusal coverage, or any other desirablecomponent to precisely engage any part of the selected tooth or teeth,aid in securing the assembly on the teeth or in the mouth, or havecomponents that are used to aid in teeth alignment, bite correctionand/or habit modification. Further, 3-D printing of the orthodonticassembly provides customizable clip members having a variety of selectedsizes, materials, shapes, directions, thickness, flexibility,configurations, and extensions, which may vary depending upon the dentalpractitioners/installers' desired treatment results.

3-D printing of embodiments of the orthodontic assembly providesversatility in fabricating a frame member, designed to allow attachmentof a clip or group of clips, and having a variety of selected sizes,materials, shapes, directions, thickness, flexibility, configurations,and extensions. 3-D printing of embodiments of the orthodontic assemblyprovides versatility in fabricating the frame member with intermediateflexible parts or with any other flexible components to be positioneddirectly or indirectly on the teeth, which may include the combinationof a single extension, plural extensions, bristles, rests, clasps,occlusal coverage, or any other desirable component to precisely engageany part or parts of the selected tooth or teeth, aid in securing theassembly on the teeth or in the mouth, or have components that are usedto aid in teeth movement, bite correction, and/or habit modification.

3-D printing of embodiments of the orthodontic assembly providesversatility with frame assembly. This versatility allows the assembly toachieve desirable teeth settling following fixed orthodontic treatmentand regain minor tooth movement as teeth shift and relapse due toundesirable positions caused by poor retainer wear by the user. Theforegoing are illustrative of those that may be achieved by the variousexemplary embodiments and are not intended to be exhaustive or limitingof the possible features which may be realized. Thus, these and otherfeatures of the various embodiments will be apparent from thedescription herein or can be learned from practicing the variousembodiments, both as embodied herein or as modified in view of anyvariation that may be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly,the invention resides in the novel methods, arrangements, combinations,and improvements herein shown and described in various exemplaryembodiments. To facilitate understanding, identical reference numeralshave been used to designate elements having substantially the same orsimilar structure and/or substantially the same or similar function.

3D printing and CAD design with the orthodontic assembly allowversatility with designing the assembly or attachment on the teeth usingalgorithms, artificial intelligence, AI, topology optimization andgeometry modification including by not limited to designing the assemblywith round, hexagonal or any other grid structures for added strength.These tools when used with various imaging and measurement tools thatmap patient's mouth, may be used to specifically tailor the orthodonticassembly to the patient's needs and desired outcome. Further, thesetechniques are used throughout treatment so that progress of thetreatment towards the desired outcome is monitored and adjusted asneeded.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein the illustrations are forpurposes of describing one or more embodiments and not for the purposesof limiting the same, FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate an embodiment of theorthodontic assembly FIG. 1A is configured for facilitating toothmovement, and/or tooth retention, when positioned in operativeengagement in the user's mouth and teeth T. The orthodontic assembly 100generally includes a frame member 102, and one or more clip members 104(not shown), removably attachable to the frame member 102. The clipmember 104 may be connected to the frame member 102 using a variety offastening features, such as a snap-fit connection, or a screw fastener,for example.

The frame member 102 has a generally arcuate or U-shaped configuration,which via 3-D printing may include a rigid and/or a semi-rigid structurethat is configurable to conform to the upper and/or lower palate of auser's mouth. Accordingly, via 3-D printing, the frame member 102 may beselectively customized for the user by scanning the interior of theuser's mouth, and forming the frame member's structure based on thetopography and/or shape of the interior of the user's mouth detected bythe 3-D printer scan.

Notably it is contemplated that tooth movement may be effectuated usinga “virtual tooth movement process.” In this process, the user's teethare scanned at several preselected views. A virtual mold of the user'steeth is then created and the user's teeth are then virtually moved inimages and to create a series of virtual molds upon which theorthodontic assembly is virtually created and printed. The Printedcomponents of the assembly have a number and/or a letter to facilitatethe assembly and subsequent replacement of the components.

Accordingly, the frame member 102 may be comprised of but not limitedto, metal, photo-hardening polymer and/or a variety of differentmaterial conducive for 3-D printing. It is contemplated that the 3-Dprinting methods used for manufacturing the frame member 102 mayinclude, however are not limited to, fused deposition modeling, as wellas, additive manufacturing processes for metal sintering, such asselective laser sintering, direct metal laser sintering or selectivelaser sintering, for example. Notably, other known 3-D printing methodsused to manufacture metal and/or polymer devices, similar to the framemember 102, clip members 104 and other active components of theorthodontic assembly may be contemplated The frame member 102 isconfigured to receive one or more clip members 104 and other attachablecomponents in a variety of configurations. As illustrated, the framemember 102 may include one or more extrusions and/or grooves 106 thatare adaptable to receivably fasten a portion of the clip member 104 tothe frame member 102. Similar to the frame member 102, the clip member104 and other interchangeable components, may be configured using 3-Dprinting methods. The clip member 104 and components are configurablevia 3D printing such that when the selected clip member 104 is fastenedto the frame member 102 it exerts a pre-selected biasing force on theuser's teeth based on the manufactured shape. The frame, clips or anyother part of the assembly can be manufactured using other methods offabrication in addition to 3D printing.

FIG. 1B illustrates an embodiment of the orthodontic assembly 200similar to that of the orthodontic assembly 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A.The orthodontic assembly 200 illustrated in FIG. 1B may be comprised ofa combination of flexible portions, semi-flexible portions and rigidportions integrally connected together with flexible intermediateconnectors. As illustrated in FIG. 1B, the orthodontic assembly 200 mayinclude a combination of different components to facilitate toothretention and/or movement. The components of the assembly may include,but are not limited to, one or more interchangeable clip members 204,one or more retainer members 212, one or more C-clasp member 214, andone or more force elements 208, which may be integrally connected to theframe member 202 or connected by intermediate flexible connector, tooperatively engage the tooth. Notably, these components may beselectively configured and manufactured via 3-D printing. Differentmaterials can be incorporated into the fabrication of the orthodonticassembly such that the different components can be made of differentmaterials. An example of this multi-material fabrication would be thefabrication of flexible titanium alloy active components, whilefabricating other components of the assembly with polymeric materials.As part of this fabrication process, after initial fabrication of the3D-printed first part, it is scanned and the second or same machine iscalibrated with the 3D geometry of the first part to fabricate thesecond part by adding and building/mounting new and differentmaterial(s) in a preselected area so that the first part is imbedded andretained in the new material.

The frame member 202 may include a variety of different connectionpoints and different levels of rigidity, and may be constructed fromdifferent materials which can be facilitated by 3-D printing.Accordingly, the frame member 202 may be a rigid or semi-rigid structureof virtually any shape, size, or thickness that, directly or indirectlyvia the clip members 204 and other components such as intermediateconnectors, facilitate tooth movement, retention, support, habitmodification and/or teeth and jaw alignment. Similar to theaforementioned embodiments, the frame member 202 may be manufacturedusing 3-D printing methods to provide a precise and conforming fit withthe user's mouth. The frame, clips or any other part of the assembly canbe manufactured using other methods of fabrication in addition to 3Dprinting.

The frame member 202 is customizable to the user. As illustrated in FIG.1B, the frame assembly 202 may include an upper portions 203 a, 203 bpositioned proximate to the teeth T, a lower portions 205 a and 205 bpositioned proximate to the user's palate, front portion 201 connectedtogether with a flexible intermediate portion 207. As previouslydiscussed, the frame assembly 202 is customizable via 3-D printing, thusany of the portions 203 a, 203 b, 205 a, 205 b, 201 and 207 of the frameassembly 202 may be selectively configured with a variable range ofrigidity and materials during manufacturing.

FIGS. 1C-1D are cross-sectional views of embodiments of the frameassembly 202 of the orthodontic assembly illustrated in FIG. 1C, theintermediate portion 207 c of the frame assembly 202 may include aflexible C-shaped element 215 c positioned between the top portion 203and lower portion 205 of the frame assembly 202. The C-shaped structureprovides a gap or opening 217 formed therein permitting the structure207 c and connected frame assembly 202 to bend or flex when inserted inthe user's mouth thereby providing sufficient force to move the tooth orteeth into a selected position through the upper portion 203 of theframe assembly 202. Similar to the aforementioned embodiment, a W shapedelement or other element that provide flexibility between differentparts of the frame or clips may not only be used to provide a force tomove the teeth, but also to provide the flexibility to prevent breakagefrom rough handling.

FIG. 1D is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of theorthodontic assembly and frame assembly 202. The frame member 202 mayhave a generally flexible helically-coiled element 215 d providedgenerally at the intermediate portion 207 d between upper portion andlower portion 205 of the frame assembly 202. Similar to theaforementioned embodiment, the helically-coiled element 215 d bends whenthe assembly is inserted in the user's mouth therefore providing theforce to move the tooth or teeth into a selected position through theupper portion 203 of the frame assembly 202. FIG. 1E is lingual view ofanother embodiment of the orthodontic assembly and frame assembly 202.Similar to aforementioned embodiments, the frame assembly 202 has upperportion 203 and a lower portion 205 and an intermediate flexible element215 e positioned at the intermediate portion 207 e, between the upperportion 203 and lower portion 205. As illustrated, the flexible element215 e includes one or more generally horizontally positioned sinusoidalwave-like structure 215 e that weave between the upper portion 203 andlower portion 205 of the frame assembly 202, providing the frameassembly 202 with flexibility.

FIG. 1F illustrates another embodiment of the frame assembly 202 andorthodontic assembly. The active component is operatively connected tothe frame assembly 202 by one or more vertically aligned sinusoidalwave-like elements 215 f. This flexible integral connection permits theactive component to flex relative to the frame member 205. Asillustrated in this embodiment, two wave-like elements 215 f extendbetween the frame member 205 and active component 208. Notably, morethan two wave-like elements 215 f may be provided to control therigidity and flexibility of the intermediate part. Similar design can beincorporated into clip assembly for added flexibility.

FIG. 1G is cross-sectional views of an embodiment of the frame assembly202 of the orthodontic assembly 2 s illustrated in FIG. 1G, theintermediate portion 209 of the frame assembly 202 may include arotating hinge element positioned between the front portion 206 andlower portion 205 of the frame assembly 202. Hinges may be used inretainers or assemblies to allow different parts to be folded indifferent directions for a variety of functions, including but notlimited to, reducing their size to allow them to be kept and stored insmaller cases or to facilitate insertion and removal from the mouth.

Hinges may be may be configured to rotate in any directions and may beused anywhere in the frame, clips or assembly.

The clip members 204 are customizable interchangeable components capableof being removably connectable to the frame member 201 or the frameassembly 202. The clip members may be manufactured via 3-D printing.This permits the manufacturer to selectively customize the rigidity andflexibility and the material of the clip members 204 in accordance withthe user's needs.

The clip member 204 may be configured for a different functionsincluding but not limited to selectively exert a force on the tooth T orselected teeth, in order to facilitate tooth movement, retention, bitecorrection and/or habit modification. The clip members 204 may includeflexible components for exerting a biasing force on the engaged tooth orteeth. Accordingly the clip member 204 is configured to bend or flexwhen the orthodontic assembly 2 positioned in the user's mouth.

FIG. 2A illustrates a plurality of clip members 204 a-h having a varietyof configurations, connected to the frame member 202 for effectuatingtooth movement/tooth retention. As shown, each clip member 204 a-h mayinclude a base portion 211 a-h configured for fastenable engagement withthe frame member 202, and a head or leaves portion 213 a-h configuredfor operative engagement with the tooth T. As seen in FIG. 2B after thebase portion 211 the rest of the clip may rest on the entire surface ofthe tooth, and accordingly is not limited to only the head portion.

As illustrated, the head portions 213 a-h of the clip members 204 a-hmay have a variety of configurations to selectively distribute forcesexerted on the tooth T by orthodontic assembly for example, the clipmember 204 b may be a singular flexible member 213 b, clip member 204 gmay be double flexible member 213 g, or clip member 204 h may be tripleflexible member 213 h that substantially engages a lingual portion ofthe tooth T. The double flexible member 213 g may be generally U-shapedwith a slit or opening 216 g that allows for additional flexibility. Thetriple flexible member 213 h may be generally M-shaped with two slits oropenings 216 h that allow for additional flexibility. In other examples,the respective clip members 204 c and 204 a may include a group ofsmaller flexible vertical extension members/leaves 213 c or horizontalextension members 213 a that cooperatively engage the surface of a toothT to effectuate tooth movement or retention. The head member 213 fincludes two flexible vertical wavelike members joined together in amiddle section. As shown, head members 213 d and 213 e have multipleflexible members joined with a pattern.

Accordingly, it is contemplated that virtually any clip member 213 shapeor configuration can be designed to effectuate tooth movement orretention.

It is contemplated that the head portions 213 a and 213 c of therespective clip members 204 a and 204 c, may be constructed to coverapproximately the same surface of the tooth T as the singular flexiblemember 213 b of the clip member 204 b, double flexible member 213 g, orthe clip member 204 g or triple flexible clip member 213 h of the clipmember 204 h. The contact surface area between the active part of theclip member and the tooth surface may vary and depending on, the shapeof the tooth, the amount of force and direction of force needed toeffectuate tooth movement, and contact with the opposing tooth or teethT. The contact surface area is not limited to the above-mentionedfactors.

The head portions 213 a and 213 c provide the respective clip members204 a and 204 c with a plurality of flexible thin extension membersengaged on the lingual portion of the tooth T. The head portions 213 aand 213 c may be configured to exert precise forces at selectedlocations on the tooth T. The tip of the clip member may provide most ofthe force but the rest of the clip can also provide force transitioningtoward the base of the clip member.

Most typical singular plate members are relatively rigid. In contrast,as illustrated in FIG. 2B, the singular plate clip member 204 mayinclude a flexible intermediate portion or feature 218 connected to anextension or leave member 213. Notably, multiple flexible intermediatefeatures, or similar flexible features, 218 may be added to the clip toenhance flexibility, as illustrated in FIG. 2F. As shown in FIG. 2A, theclip member 204 f has an upper engagement portion 213 f which includes afirst curved member that engages an outer portion of the selected toothand a second curved member that engages an opposing outer portion of theselected tooth to facilitate provide added flexibility.

Notably, it is contemplated that the clip member 204 and otherengagement components in cooperation with the flexible feature 218 willhave the flexibility to be provided as a singular flexible plate memberthat engages one tooth T.

As shown in FIG. 2B-2E the clip member 204 may be removably fastenableto the frame member 202 using a snap-fit connection. As shown the clipmember 204 may include fastening member's 210 a-b and an opening 224provided there between for receiving a portion of the frame member 202therein. Additionally, one or more screws or fasteners 222 may be usedto further secure the clip member 204 to the frame member 202.

As illustrated in FIG. 2G and FIG. 2H, the clip may include a first clipmember 234 a and a second clip member 234 b. FIG. 2G illustrates anenvironmental internal view of the orthodontic assembly including theframe member 202 of FIG. 1B and the first clip member 234 a and thesecond clip member 234 b, wherein the first clip member 234 a engagesthe frame 202 and engages the second clip member 234 b, and the secondclip member 234 b engages the first clip member 234 a and the tooth.Further, the second clip member 234 b may engage an attachment on thetooth surface or any member that is used to align the teeth, correct thebite, or modify habits. FIG. 2H is a side cross-sectional view of theorthodontic assembly of FIG. 2G. Such a clip allows for the second clipmember 234 b to be manufactured once, and then different first clips 234a may be manufactured and replaced as the treatment progresses. Furtherthe process may be reversed.

As illustrated in FIGS. 2C and 2D, tooth movement can be achieved byinterchanging different shaped clip members 204 or changing the frame202 that is configured to fit a standard clip design within a certaindistant from the teeth or soft tissue to allow for the tooth movementwith the frame member 202 selectively controlling the biasing forceexerted on the tooth T. In one example, a portion of the frame member202 is received within the respective fastening members 210 a and 210 bof the clip member 204. As such the connecting features 210 a and 210 bengage the frame member 202, thereby providing a secure snap-fitconnection between the clip member 204 and the frame member 202, asshown.

The clip member 204 may be configured to provide force to the tooth T atprecise locations 216 on the tooth T. As illustrated in FIG. 2E and FIG.2I, the clip member 204 may include a plurality of bristles pads 226that extend outward from the head or leaves portion 213 applying anengaging force to engage the tooth T. The bristles pads 226 may beconfigured with any shape, sizes, and number including but not limitedto the following, straight, curved, wave-shaped, tapered, grouped, samedirection, different direction, small, large, micro and nano structuresto enhance the contact surface area between the orthodontic assembly andthe tooth T and to accelerate tooth movement or retention.

The bristles can be used on the clip, labial bow clip, connecteddirectly to the frame, used on a bonded attachment (bracket) on theteeth, or incorporated into clear aligners. Further, the bristles may beused on the inner side of the clear aligner system opposing at least aportion of one surface of that tooth, and the clear aligner withbristles can be manufactured using 3D printing, added to the alignerwithin a clip through a window created to insert an attachment with thebristles, or through a variety or manufacturing methods andcombinations.

The bristles may be used with vibrating devices available in the market,such as Acceledent. The vibration from the vibrating device allow thebristles to vibrate and to place an intermittent pulsating forces on thetooth to facilitate the tooth movement. The shape and direction of thebristles may be configured according to the predetermined tooth movementof the teeth. The bristles in contact with the tooth may have more thanone direction in order to accomplish more complex movements of the toothin more than one direction.

As illustrated in FIG. 2J, the clip member 204 may also be configuredwith suction cups 229 that extend outward from the head or leavesportion 213 to engage the tooth T. The suction cups 229 may also be usedon the surface of an aligner that is in contact with the tooth.

The suction cups 229 may be configured with any shape, size, and numberto enhance the retention and facilitate tooth movement when the suctioncup is in active engagement with the tooth surface so that the clip heador aligner using the suction cups 229 is activated to move the tooth.

FIGS. 2K-S are cross-sectional views of different clip designs,combination clips, grooves/openings 106 of FIG. 1A and locking parts ofthe orthodontic assembly.

FIGS. 2K-S clip members 204, 234 b and/or frame member 202 may includefastening members 266 b extending throughout and into the outer surfaceof the clip or frame members or fastening 266 a extending through partof the clip or frame members.

FIG. 2K illustrates an opening or groove 299 in the frame member 202 toaid in the removal of clips or any fastening members. Further, fasteningmember 266 b extending into an opening in the clip 204.

FIG. 2L illustrates a screw 222 inserted into a pre-configured openingin the extension member 106 b for additional retention.

FIG. 2M illustrates first clip 234 b having extensions 266 b into theframe 202 and second clip member 234 a and a pin member 267 a extendingthroughout openings in the second clip 234 a, first clip 234 b, andframe 202 and locked into position with a cap clip or screw nut 267 b,locking members of the assembly into active engagement.

FIG. 2N illustrates the first clip 234 b having extensions 266 a intothe frame 202 and second clip member 234 a and C-shaped clip 268engaging the second clip 234 a, and frame 202 and aiding in theretention of the first clip member 234 b in the assembly.

FIG. 2O illustrates a cross-sectional view of the orthodontic assemblyof FIG. 2A including a clip member 204 having extension 266 a and is inactive engagement with an opening in the frame 202. The clip 204 alsoincluded fastening member 210 a-b to engage the frame 202. The openingin the frame 202 may have a serrated surface that engages acorresponding serrated surface on the extension 266 a to help secure theclip 204 in the frame 202.

FIG. 2P illustrates the second clip member 234 a engaging apre-configured opening in the frame member 202 and extension 266 a ofthe first clip member 234 b engaging another preconfigured opening insecond clip member 234 a. The second clip member 234 a may have aserrated surface that engages a corresponding serrated surface on theclip 202 to help secure the second clip member 234 a in the frame 202.

FIG. 2Q is a front view of the C-shaped intermediate member of FIG. 1Cof the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 1B. The C-shaped intermediate memberor any other intermediate member 207 of the assembly of FIG. 1B may bedesigned as in FIG. 2Q as a first clip member 234 c having extrusions266 b engaging a preconfigured opening of the second clip member 234 b.Further the C-shaped intermediate member 234 c may also have a secondextension 266 a engaging a preconfigured opening in the frame member 202and a third clip 234 a.

FIG. 2R is a cross-sectional view of extension 266 b of the clip member234 c of FIG. 2Q in active engagement with frame member 202.

FIG. 2S is a cross-sectional view of extension 266 a of the clip member234 c of FIG. 2Q in active engagement with frame member 202 and thirdclip member 234 a, where the extension 266 a of the clip member 234 c ispositioned between frame member 202 and third clip member 234 a.

Clip members of the assembly may be removably attached to the frame,other clips or other members of the assembly or may be irreversiblyattached to the frame, other clips or other members of the assembly.

When separating components of the assembly, some components may bedamaged and may need to be replaced, other components may be reused inthe same assembly or in a different assembly.

Sealant or bonding agents may also be used between different componentsin some parts of the assembly, the sealing or bonding process betweendifferent parts of the assembly may allow different parts of theassembly to be removably or irreversibly attached to each other. Thebenefit of the sealants or bonding agents is to provide additionalretention and ease of assembly.

FIG. 2T is cross sectional view of the frame 1202 of FIG. 2U along Zaxis. The frame 1202 has a lower portion 1205, an upper portion 1203 andan intermediate portion 1208 providing flexibility between the upper andlower portions. The upper portion 1203 has an elastic porous padcomponent 1225. The elastic porous pad component 1225 is compressed whenin active engagement with tooth T and provide a force for tooth movementor retention when that force is opposed by similar force on the opposingside of the tooth. The size of the pores and the material used may bealtered to change the compressibility of the pad and force exerted onthe tooth.

FIG. 2U illustrates a clip member 1204 connected to the frame member1202 for effectuating tooth movement/tooth retention. Clip member 1204is connected to the lower portion of the assembly 1205 and upper portionof the assembly 1203. The assembly has a first upper portion 1203,intermediate flexible portion 1208 and lower portion 1205. The clipmember 1204 clips into a preconfigured area 1240 of the assembly. Thepreconfigured area 1240 for clip engagement may be on the outer side orinner side of the assembly 1202.

As illustrated, in FIG. 2V the clip member 1204 has a head portion 1206a and body portion 1209, the body portion 1209 having a first extrusion1209 a, second extrusion 1209 b, third extrusion 1209 c and forthextrusion 1209 d. The clip member 1204 and the extrusions 1209 a-d fromthe clip members 1204 engage preconfigured parts 1240 of the assemblytherefore, fastening the clip into the assembly. The head portion 1206 aof the clip member 1204 is generally flexible and may have differentshapes and configurations, for example clip member 1204 has a T-shapedhead portion 1206 a, clip member 1204 b has a single bar shaped headportion 1206 b, clip member 1204 c has a cross shaped head portion 1206c, clip member 1204 d has X shaped head portion 1206 d extending from abar portions, and clip member 1204 e has a loop shaped head portion 1206e and first, second, and third extrusions as shown. Clip 1204 may alsohave only a first extrusion and second extrusion.

FIG. 2W and FIG. 2X illustrate a clip member 1214 configured to clip toa frame member 1212 having a flexible portion 1213 and rigid portion1215. As illustrated in FIG. 2X, the clip member 1214 has a base 1219, aC-shape flexible portion 1222, a bar or plate 1223 having a distal end1216. and an adjustable portion 1211. The clip member 1214 is connectedto a preconfigured area in the rigid portion 1215 and flexible portion1213 of the frame 1212. Clip member 1214, as shown in FIG. 2W, ispreconfigured to fit into an opening 1221 a in the rigid portion 1215and slide into a second adjacent and contiguous opening 1221 b in therigid portion 1215. Clip member 1214 may also be configured to snapdirectly into opening 1221 b. Openings 1221 a and 1221 b have protrusion1220 engaging the upper curved section 1227 of the C-shaped part of theclip 1214. Opening 1221 b has first opening 1217 a and second opening1217 b preconfigured to respectively engage the first extrusion 1219 aand second extrusion 1219 b of the base 1219 of the clip member 1214. Asthe clip 1214 slides from opening 1221 a to 1221 b, protrusion 1220 onone side and protrusions 1219 a and 1219 b on the opposite side lock theclip in place while allowing the C-shape part of the clip to bend andplace additional force on the flexible portion 1213 for tooth movementor retention. The clip member 1214 may be made from a flexible material,such as for example nickel titanium, while the assembly may be made fromflexible 3D printed polymers, but any material combinations providingthe desired force on the tooth may be used. Opening 1221 a may be filledand sealed by inserting a removable, or permanently fixed, block (notshown) preconfigured to fit opening 1221 a after the clip member 1214 isin second position in opening 1217 b.

Bar 1223 may have an adjustable portion 1211, where the adjustableportion 1211 has an opening engaging the bar 1223 to allow theadjustable portion 1211 to slide on the bar 1223 from first position1211 a to second positon 1211 b relative to the flexible part 1213 ofthe assembly. The flexible part 1213 may have first protrusion 1218 aand second protrusion 1218 b on the opposite sides of the distal end ofthe bar 1216 to prevent the adjustment part 1211 from siding fromposition 1211 b to 1211 a. The shape of the first protrusion 1218 a andthe second protrusion 1218 b allow for the adjustable portion 1211 toslide over them. When the adjustment part is in its second position 1211b the bar 1223 is deflected away from the flexible portion 1213 and asthe C shape part of the clip 1222 is further compressed, a force isexerted onto portion 1213 for tooth movement or retention.

Alternatively, and in other embodiment clip 1214 may snap fit directlyinto opening 1221 a and is removable or permanently attached into theassembly.

Flexible member 1213 may be formed having a first portion 1213 a, secondportion 1213 b, and third portion 1213 c, where each portion may beformed with different elasticity or stiffness to provide the desiredforce on the tooth The flexibility or rigidity may be formed during 3-Dprinting by printing the different portions with materials havingdifferent flexibility or rigidity or by using topology optimization,artificial intelligence and geometry modification including but notlimited to designing the assembly with round, hexagonal, rectilinear,triangular, wiggle, honeycomb or any other grid structures.

In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the orthodonticassembly provides occlusal coverage of one or more teeth T to facilitatetooth movement and retention. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the outersurface of the clip member 204, the frame member 202 and the remainingtooth surfaces are covered by a generally thin, governing member 220that may be configured to cover in addition to the clip and frame aportion of the tooth, the entire tooth, a group of teeth, or the entirearch, to facilitate tooth movement and/or retention. The thin clearshell governing member 220 is locked into corresponding locking parts onthe outside part of the frame and clip through a corresponding groovesor holes in addition to the any other retentive part on the teeth.

As illustrated, the clip member 204 is configured for engagement withthe tooth T and the frame member 202. The clip member 204 may be made ofmetal and/or polymer, or any other desirable material. The governingmember 220 provides a shell that includes a series of openings 233 and235 formed about the outer portions of the respective clip member 204and frame member 202. Accordingly, the governing member 220 fastenablyengages the outer portion of the frame member 202 and clip member 204and respective extrusions 235 and 233 locking the shell in to the framemember 202 and clip member 204. Alternatively, the governing member 220may extend and cover the extrusions 235 and 233 and lock the shell intothe frame and clip members for added retention. The governing member 220generally includes a first governing portion 218 that is configured forcooperative engagement with a lingual surface of the tooth T, as well asthe outer surface of the clip member 204 and frame member 202. Thegoverning member 220 further includes a second governing portion 228that covers the buccal surface of the tooth T.

The governing member 220 is fastenable to the frame member 202 and clipmember 204, covering both members and may extend over the rest of thetooth, adjacent teeth or the entire arch. To enhance aesthetics, it iscontemplated that the governing member 220 may be made of a generallyclear polymer material.

As illustrated in FIG. 3B, clip member 204 may also be configured topartially engage the incisal edge of the tooth T with an extensionportion or governing member 230 to effectuate occlusal coverage.Regarding FIGS. 3A and 3B, the occlusal coverage configuration of theclip members 204 may facilitate a variety of functions, including, butnot limited to facilitating tooth movement, opening or deepening of theuser's bite, reducing occlusal interferences during the tooth movementprocess, as well as further protecting the user's teeth from grinding orbruxism.

In an embodiment shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, the frame member 202 or the clipmember 204 may include a governing portion 221 a, 221 b that providesocclusal coverage of the posterior teeth T to aid in teeth movement orin bite correction for the user. FIG. 4A illustrates a pre-selecteddesired shape of occlusal surface of the teeth T. As illustrated in FIG.4A, the governing portion 221 a may be configured via 3-D printing toguide the bite into a favorable position when the user bites down on thegoverning portion 221 b so as to effectuate bite correction. A series ofgoverning portions may be needed to guide the bite into its finalposition.

As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the governing portions 221 a and 221 b may bea generally smooth surface, match the occlusal or lingual shape of theteeth or pre-selected shape to guide the teeth into a different and moredesirable bite, therefore facilitating bite correction. The pre-selectedshape for occlusal coverage can be progressively incorporated into newclips to ensure that the changes occur at a desirable speed according tothe patient's adaptation to the new bite. Similar to the othercomponents disclosed herein, shaping of the clip member 204 andgoverning portions 221 a, 221 b to provide accurate and optimal occlusalcoverage may be achieved via 3-D printing.

As illustrated in FIG. 4C, the governing portion 221 extends from theclip member 204 over the tooth T, such that when a user bites down, thelower jaw slides into a pre-selected position based on the shape andposition of the governing members covering the upper and lower teethsurfaces.

In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5D, the orthodontic assemblyincludes a frame member 202 and one or more a clip members 244operatively connectable thereto. The clip member 244 generally includesa stem portion 236 and a C-shaped extension member 238, contoured toengage the lingual surface of the tooth T. The C-shaped extension member238 extends generally from the mid-portion 232 of the clip member 244,providing a contoured surface that engages the outer contour of thetooth T. As shown, the C-shaped extension member 238 may includetapering tips 240 a, 240 b, provided generally on both ends of the clipmember 244. Notably, it is contemplated that the C-shaped configurationof the clip member 244 may also be used to engage the gingival area ofposterior teeth T for added retention, if desired.

FIGS. 5C and 5D illustrate a C-shaped extension member 238 with limitedcontact with the tooth T. FIG. 5C is an occlusal top view of anotherembodiment of the clip member of the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 5Aillustrating limited contact of the flexible part of the clip with thetooth. FIG. 5D is a side cross-sectional view of FIG. 5C. The C-shapedextension member 238 may be configured such that the tapering tips 240a, 240 b, 240 c, 240 d may have only limited contact the tooth surface.The limited contact with the tapering flexible members 240 a, 240 b, 240c, 240 d allow the flexible members to exert force on the tooth whenactivated by limited tooth movement due to shifting when used inretainers or when configured during the fabrication process to allow fortooth movement.

FIG. 5E illustrates a ball and socket relationship between the stemmember 236 and C-shaped extension 238. The stem member 236 has a ball orlong strip shaped end 236 a configured to engage a preconfigured socketor long groove shaped opening 238 b in the C-shaped extension member 238allowing the C-shape extension to limited rotational movement around theball to maintain contact with the tooth surface as the tooth moves intoa second position in the mouth.

One advantage of the orthodontic assembly and C-shaped clip member 244arrangement is that the clip member 244 is capable of engaging theundercut on the lingual surface L of the teeth T, as illustrated. Thelingual engagement type of engagement is another benefit that theorthodontic assembly provides. Other fixed orthodontic assemblies areusually blocked from engaging the area under the contour of the toothwhich is called the “undercut area” U, as shown in FIG. 5A.

Teeth movement and retention may also be facilitated and/or improved byusing bonded components or banded components attached directly to thespecific tooth or teeth designated for treatment. It is contemplatedthat the components may have virtually any shape or size desired and maybe fabricated using 3-D printing methods or other fabrication methods.It is further contemplated that the components may be comprised ofvirtually any material and may be bonded or otherwise attached to anypart of tooth. For example, a bonded member on the tooth T may engage aleaf, a wire, or a plate attached to a clip member. In another examplethe bonded member provided on the tooth T may directly engage the framemember of the orthodontic assembly.

In an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6A-C, the orthodontic assemblyincludes a frame member 202, one or more clip members 244, and one ormore bonded components 242 configured to receive operative engagementwith the respective clip members 244. As illustrated, the orthodonticassembly may be provided along the lingual surface of the tooth T. Assuch, the bonded component 242 may be connected directly to the tooth T,via connection features such as bonding agents.

As illustrated in FIG. 6B, the clip member 244 generally includes anengagement feature 250, which may have a contoured C-shaped surfacecomplementary to the outer surface of the tooth T and interior surface248 of the bonded component 242. As illustrated, an opening 246 isprovided between the engagement component 250 and the upper portion 256of the clip member 244. The opening 246 formed between the engagementcomponent 250 and the upper portion 256 is configured for receivingtherein the connecting feature 252 of the bonded component 242, forminga connection between the engagement bonded component 242 and the clipmember 244. In an inserted position, the bonded component 242 helpssecure the clip member 244 onto the tooth T. As such, the clip member244 exerts a force on the bonded component 242 and directly to the toothT. The force and direction applied to the tooth T may be adjusted byincrementally adjusting the shape of the clip member 244 provided forconnection with the bonded member 242. Similar to the aforementionedclip members, adjustment and replacement of the clip member 244 toachieve a desired movement of the tooth T may be achieved by 3-Dprinting various customized clip members.

In another embodiment shown in FIGS. 7A-C, the assembly may furtherinclude a bonded component 260, which may be connected directly to theouter surface of the tooth T. The assembly further includes a wire orbiasing member 270 which, in connection with a connected frame membernot shown), exerts a force on the connected bonded component 260 tofacilitate movement of the connected tooth T or for retention. The wireor biasing member 270 may be fabricated using 3-D printing or any otherfabrication methods.

As illustrated in FIG. 7C, the bonded component 260 may include a firstportion 261 a and a second portion 261 b, and a groove 262 formedtherebetween configured to receive the first portion the biasing member270 therein to effectuate tooth movement or retention.

As illustrated in FIG. 7D, which is a side cross-sectional view of anembodiment of another head of the clip of FIG. 5A, the bonded component260 may include at least one saw-tooth shaped micro-ridge 263 orplurality of ridges. The ridges can be horizontal, vertical, stacked,alternated, or combinations thereof. The bonded component 260 may alsoinclude outer first portion 264 a and second outer portion 264 b and topportion 265. The ridges 263 and outer portions 264 a and 254 b areconfigured to receive the biasing member 270. The biasing member 270includes a top portion 275. When member 270 is in active engagement withbonded member 260, top portion 275 of the biasing member 270 will reston the top portion 265 of the bonded component 260. The top portion 275helps to align the biasing member 270 and bonded component 260. The topportion 275 also may apply a force on the biasing member 270.

It is also contemplated that similar micro structures may be usedinstead of the saw-tooth shaped micro ridges on the bonded component andcorresponding biasing member including but not limited to loops andhooks interlocking micro structure, mushroom-shaped fastener structures,bristles, and suction cups micro structures.

In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 8A-D, the orthodontic assembly 300includes a frame member 302, a clip member 304 removably connectable tothe frame member 302, and one or more bonded members 360 to achievetooth movement. As illustrated, the bonded member 360 is connected tothe tooth T. The bonded member 360 includes dual engagement members 362a, 362 b formed in a v-shaped configuration for receiving the clipmember 304 therebetween.

The clip member 304 generally includes a head portion 313 a operativelyconnected to a spring or biasing member 319 a, and a base member 311.Similar to the aforementioned embodiments, the clip member 304 may havea snap-fit connection with the frame member 302. The head member 313 ahas a v-shaped configuration and side hook members 315 a and 315 b forinsertion and secure attachment between the dual engagement members 362a, 362 b, of the bonded member 360. In an inserted position with thedual engagement members 362 a, 362 b, the side hook members 315 a and315 b, the head member 313 a and the biasing member 319 a in cooperationwith the clip member 304 and frame member 302 exerts a force on thebonded member 360, thereby exerting a force on the connected tooth T.

Similar to the aforementioned embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 8Eand FIG. 8F the clip member 304 may have a snap fit connection withframe member 302. The head member 313 c is a C shaped configuration withflexible end hook members 315 a and 315 b form a snap on clip for abonded attachment 361. The bonded attachment 361 has inverted V shape.It is bonded to the tooth with base member 358 and has a narrowing neckmember 359.

In other embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 8G, FIG. 8H and FIG. 8Ithe clip member 304 may have suction cup-shaped head 380 configured toengage a bonded member 370. Bonded oval shaped component 370 may have aconcave middle part 371 and convex oval outer ridge 372 configured tofit the corresponding configuration of the clip member 380, whereasconvex part 381 fits in the concave part 371 and end peripheries 372 ofthe suction cup member 380 extend over the convex part 372 of the bondedcomponent 370 to form a seal with the bonded component. The suction-cupinteraction between the clip member 380 and the bonded member 370 allowsfor a more secure connection between the clip member 380 and the bondedmember 370. This also allows for an effective application of a forcefrom the clip member 380 on the tooth T via the bonded member 370.

As illustrated in FIG. 8D, the biasing member 319 b may have dualflexible members for exerting a force on the bonded member 360 and toothmember T. The head member 313 d is inserted between the dual engagementmembers 362 a, 362 b of the bonded member 360.

In another embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the orthodontic assembly 400 mayinclude a frame member 402 having a U-shaped track configuration forclip on components or for facilitating slidable movement of componentsalong the frame member 402. As illustrated, the frame member 402 mayinclude a track-like configuration including one or more rails 403 a,403 b configured to receivably permit one or more clip members 404and/or other interchangeable components to clip or slide along the framemember 402. As such, the clip member 404 exerts a force on one or moreteeth T.

As illustrated in FIG. 10A-10B the clip members 404 may includeconnecting features or lips 405 a, 405 b, which are configured for aclip or snap engagement with the respective rails 403 a and 403 b of theframe member 402. The frame member 402 permits the clip members 404 toslide or clip along the frame member 402 for selective engagement withone or more of the desired teeth T The connecting features 405 a and 405b each include respective openings or grooves 407 a, 407 b for receivingthe respective rails 403 a, 403 b therein.

As illustrated in an embodiment shown in FIGS. 11A-11E, the orthodonticassembly provides a frame member 402 and a slidable clip member 404configured to engage the user's tooth T. The clip member 404 may includeone or more slides, or wheels 460 a, 460 b that permit the clip member404 to slide along the frame member 402 and respective rails 403 a, 403b. The clip member 404 may further include a sleeve member 406 which isconfigured to engage the buccal and lingual portions of the tooth.Engage the tooth like a ring or band around the tooth.

As depicted in FIG. 11A, the frame member 402 may be provided in theposterior area of the mouth to distalize the molar. The frame member 402is operatively connected to a clip member 404 which includes a partmember 408 to help in the seating of the band member 406 around thetooth T.

The orthodontic assembly may further include a spring or biasing member464. The spring 464 may be pre-loaded such that when the orthodonticassembly 4 positioned in the user's mouth, the spring 464 exerts a forceon the operatively connected clip member 404 and connected tooth T,thereby facilitating tooth movement or retention.

As illustrated, the orthodontic assembly may further include a rodmember 462. The rod member 462, which may be connected to the framemember 402 and extends along the rails 403 a, 403 b to provide guidanceand support as the clip member 404 slides along the frame member 402.The biasing member 408 and band member 406, which encloses the tooth T,is capable of sliding along frame member 402 and through lockingengagement 492. Rod member 462 may be rotated about a hinge member 494provided on one side of the clip member 404 into locking engagement witha hook 492 on the frame member 402 on the other side.

The rod member 462 hinged engagement with hook 494 allows the spring 464to be removed, activated, or replaced as needed. As illustrated in FIGS.11D-E, elastic rubber bands 468 may also be connected to a catch members408 on the band member 406 of the clip member 404, and to the outersurface of the frame member 402 and exert a biasing force on the toothT. In an embodiment of the orthodontic assembly illustrated in FIGS. 12Aand 12B, the clip member 434 is connectable to the track frame member402 to exert a force on an engaged tooth T. The clip member 434 mayinclude a generally elastic module 433. Notably, the clip member 434 maybe provided with the elastic member, wherein the elastic module insertedinto the frame member 402 and pre-loaded to exert a biasing force ontooth T or group of teeth when in an engaged position. The force appliedto the tooth T may be controlled by modifying the size of the clipmember 434 and elastic module 433. Further, the force applied to thetooth T may be adjusted by varying the distance between the frame member402 and the tooth T. In this situation, a standard clip may be used, andthe force exerted on the tooth is based upon the shape of the framemember. As the tooth moves, a new frame may be used to further move thetooth by changing the shape of the frame to apply a force on the toothusing the standard clip. As a result, the treatment may advance byeither changing the clips on a set frame, or changing the frame usingstandard clips, or even a combination of both.

The clip member 434 may be operatively connected to one or more hooks,windows or grooves (not shown) provided in the frame member 402. Assuch, when the orthodontic assembly is positioned in the user's mouth,and the clip member 434 is seated in the frame member 402, the elasticmodule 433 may be compressed or stretched, thereby selectively exertinga force on the engaged tooth T or teeth. Notably, the clip member 434and elastic module 433 may be configured as one joined component.

The elastic clip member 434 may be interchanged with a clip member 434having a different shape or biasing force to force the tooth to move inthe desired direction. Notably, it is contemplated that clip member 434may be manufactured in customizable size, shapes, and colors, includinga clear color, using 3-D printing and any other manufacturing processes.It is further contemplated the clip member 434 may be used in theanterior portion of the mouth and attached to a fastening member such asa hook, which is described below herein.

In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the orthodonticassembly 500 may further include a frame member 502 including clipmembers 504 to facilitate “bite correction.” Notably, different clipmembers having different components may also be used for habitmodification. As shown, the clip member 504 may include one or moreangled or ramp portions 506. The ramp or inclined portion 506 may bepositioned for engagement with a portion of the lower teeth tofacilitate bite correction. It is contemplated that multiple clipmembers 504 may be provided with different positions of the ramp on theclip for the purposes of forward positioning of the lower jaw inaddition to opening the bite. Forward positioning is when the lower jawand teeth are forced into a position that is a more forward positionthan the natural closing position over a period of time until the newjaw position becomes permanent.

FIG. 13B is an occlusal top view of the upper palate illustrating theorthodontic assembly and clip member 504 of FIG. 13A positioned in theframe 502.

FIG. 13C is a lateral, side view of a hook component 512 originatingfrom a frame member 502 or clip member 504 on the frame (not shown) ofthe upper and lower arches and connected with elastic rubber bands 520for bite correction. FIG. 13D is a lateral, side view of componentsoriginating from a frame member 502 (not shown) or clip member 504 onthe frame member of the upper and lower arches and connected with aspring 510 for bite correction.

In another embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the orthodonticassembly 600 may be configured to facilitate widening of the arches of auser's teeth. The orthodontic assembly includes a frame assembly 602 oftwo portions 603 a and 603 b and an adjustment member 690. The frameassembly 602 and adjustment member 690 may be configured andmanufactured via the aforementioned 3-D printing methods. As such, theframe assembly 602 is configured and manufactured to conform to themiddle of the upper portion and/or lower portion of the user's mouth tofacilitate widening of the arches. As illustrated, the frame assembly602 may include a first portion 603 a and a second portion 603 bconfigured to receive a dual clip member active component 690 for theexpansion of the palate of the user's mouth. In one embodiment, archwidening may be achieved by inserting the assembly with the dual clipadjustment member 690 into the user's mouth, and providing after apredetermined time a replacement of the dual clip adjustment member 690incrementally increasing the force on the teeth forcing them apart.

The adjustment component 690 may be but not limited to, a rotatingactive component 690 b called hyrax, commonly used in fixed appliancesto expand the arch and the teeth in the mouth, FIG. 14 B, or a flexibleU-shaped spring member 690 a FIG. 14 A. The active member 690 ispositioned intermediate to the first portion 603 a and second portion603 b to apply a lateral biasing force or pulling force to each of theportions 603 a, 603 b. The adjustment component 690 may be adjusted,replaced or modified to vary the force exerted on the first and secondportions 603 a, 603 b. As such, during the adjustment process,replacement of the adjustment member 690 to selectively increase thebiasing or pulling forces of the adjustment member 690 on the portions603 a, 603 b either forces the first portion and second portion 603 a,603 b together to facilitate narrowing of the arches or pushes the firstportion 603 a and second portion 603 b apart, thereby facilitating ofthe expansion of the user's arches. The dual clip adjustment member 690may be removed after the expansion is accomplished and replaced by asimple bar to minimized discomfort associated with the size and shape tothe active components. As shown in FIG. 14C the clip member 692 isremovably insertable into a portion of the adjustment member 603 of theframe assembly 602. The edge portion 680 is insertable into the aperture684 formed in the adjustment member 603, and the clip portions 682engage the inner edge of the aperture 684 thereby locking the clipmembers 692 to the adjustment member 603.

In embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 15A-P, the orthodontic assemblyincludes labial bow member 804, which is configurable for positioning inthe anterior portion in the user's mouth and a component member 806. Thelabial bow member 804 is removably connected to the component member 806to apply a force or rest passively on the user's teeth. The componentmember 806 may be connected to a frame member (not shown).

As illustrated, the labial bow member 804 exerts a force on the user'steeth to facilitate tooth movement or rest passively on the user's teethand may include a variety of configurations. The labial bow 804 mayinclude an assortment of configurations, which may include, but are notlimited to, two or more strips in combination in joining areas,extensions 808, bristles, suction cups, circles, hearts, and stars.Additionally aesthetic clips may be used in combination with a connectedframe member. Labial bow member may also include two or more sectionsconfigured to engage each other with ball and socket configurationsimilar to illustration in FIG. 5E allowing designated sections tomaintain contact desirable contact with the tooth surface as the toothmoves or for applying specific force for tooth movement or retention.The labial bow member 804 is interchangeably replaceable such that auser or orthodontic professional may easily remove and/or replace thelabial bow as desired. The labial bow member 804 may be inserted into anopening formed in a locking component member.

The opening in the locking component member can take can take differentshapes and configuration to receivably engage the correspondingcomponent on the labial bow member 804.

The labial bow member 804 may also include a fastening member 892 onlabial bow member 804 having a wedge-shaped body. To facilitate theinterchange of labial bow members 804, the orthodontic assembly furtherincludes a component member 806 having an aperture 888 formed thereinconfigured to receive the fastening member 892 therein. As illustrated,the fastening member 892 is inserted into the aperture 888 securing thebow member 804 to the hook member 806. Notably, the labial bowconfiguration permits a user to easily interchange or adjust the labialbow members 804 with a different labial bow member 804 having differentshapes, designs, materials or biasing force on the teeth T.

Further, the labial bow embodiment permits the insertion of elastomericstring FIG. 15 C which is flexible and may be stretched permitting theball shaped endings to be inserted into the respective fastening members888.

The component locking member 806 may receive an either semi-rigid orelastomeric labial bow member therein, for added flexibility and forvisually aesthetic purposes. Notably the loop originating from 892 ofsemi-rigid configuration may be flexed to facilitate the insertion ofthe labial bow into the opening 888.

As illustrated in FIG. 15G, the labial bow may include a clear stripmember 814 that is provided about the outside portion of the teeth toachieve tooth retention and or movement. The clear serrated strip member814 slides into a locking clip member 844 that is attached to the frame802 or clip member 804 provided on a frame member 802. The length of theclear strip member 814 may be adjusted using a cable and tie feature.

As illustrated in FIG. 15H of the orthodontic assembly of FIG. 15Gincludes the labial strip member 814, a clip member 844 configured toreceive the labial member 814 therein. The clip member 844 includes aninner clip portion 822 and an outer clip portion 820 configured toreceive a portion of the labial member 814 there between. The outer clipportion 820 has a flexible body permitting the outer clip portion 820 toflex when the labial member 814 is slidably adjusted, thereby permittingthe labial member to slide therein.

As illustrated in FIG. 15I, the outer lip portion 820 includes a lockingportion 821, which engages a corresponding inner edge 824 of the labialbow member 814, locking the strip member in a selected position. Theclip portion 820 also includes a top edge member 826 which controlsmovement of the labial member 814. As illustrated, FIG. 15I is a topsectional view of the orthodontic assembly of 15G, illustrating thelabial bow member and the clip member connection. FIG. 15J is a frontalview of the orthodontic assembly of 15G, illustrating the labial bowmember 814 and clip member 804 relationship. Labial member 814 could beeither simple clear serrated strip or could be customized and 3D printedto fit the individual teeth of the user.

Other examples of the locking components are shown in FIGS. 15K-W. FIG.15K is a frontal view of another embodiment of the labial bow member 804configured with first and second strips 897 a, wherein the first andsecond strips 897 b connect and separate at predetermined locations.FIG. 15M is a top occlusal view of an assembly with labial bow member804 with curved extensions 808 in active engagement with the teeth, andthe labial bow member 804 is in operative engagement with loop shapelocking members 807 and C shape locking members 809. The loop shapemembers 807 and C shape members 809 may have extensions 858 for theconnection with clips or with the frame of the assembly. FIG. 15N is aside view of one example of fastening member 893 of loop lockingcomponent of the labial bow member, and FIG. 15O is a top view of FIG.15N. The fastening member 893 acts as a locking member to lock thelabial bow 804 to the opening 807 b of the loop member 807. Thefastening member 893 on the labial bow member 804 may have a round oroval shaped body. To facilitate the interchange of the labial bow member804, the loop member 807 of the orthodontic assembly may have twoopenings 807 a and 807 b formed and configured to receive the lockingcomponent 893 as shown in FIG. 15L. The fastening member 893 may fitthrough and then slide from the larger opening 807 a into the smalleropening 807 b into a locking position. Further, a block (not shown) maybe placed in opening 807 a to prevent the locking component 893 fromdisengaging.

FIG. 15S is a side view and FIG. 15R is a top view of another example ofthe fastening member 893 with a first extrusion 895 a and secondextrusion 895 b from a round base 895 c. The locking members 895 a and895 b of FIG. 15S are configured to fit into an opening 877 of the loopmember 807 of FIG. 15Q and rotated into a locking position to engagecorresponding locking elements 877 a and 877 b respectively to formlocking engagement, FIG. 15U is a cross-sectional view of the front partof loop 807 with groove shaped configuration for additional locking andpositioning of the labial bow 804 between the corresponding 871 a and871 b components of the loop 807.

FIG. 15W is a side view of another example of the fastening member 893with a rectangular-shaped locking component 895. The rectangular-shapedfastening member 895 is configured to snap fit into correspondingrectangular opening 875 of the loop member 807 of FIG. 15V. Thefastening member 895 on the labial bow member 804 may have a round,oval, or any shape and combination shaped body to snap fit or slide intocorresponding opening 875 of the loop member 807.

Another example of a locking component is a C shaped component member809 included in the orthodontic assembly 8 shown in FIG. 15P. The Cshaped component member may engage the labial bow 804, and stabilize thelabial bow 804 in selected areas as determined by the orthodontist asshown in FIG. 15M.

As illustrated in FIG. 15M the extension member 858 connects with therest of the assembly with at least one locking component forming theback connector. Another example of a locking component connecting theback connector to the rest of the assembly is a modified C-slidingmember 1802 in FIG. 15Xa. The modified C-sliding member 1802 has a firstlocking extension 1804 a and a second locking 1804 b in generallyopposing directions towards one another. Member 1802 may have additionalextensions 1804 c and 1804 d. Extensions 1804 a, 1804 b, 1804 c and 1804d of member 1802 first engage the frame member 1002 or bow member of theassembly in corresponding preconfigured openings 1805 a, 1805 b, 1805 cand 1805 d, as shown in FIG. 15Xb, and slide into corresponding lockingpreconfigured position 1806 a, 1806 b.1806 c and 1806 d respectively.Additionally, the frame member may have at least one locking blockmember corresponding the opening for the initial engagement of the clipmember 1802 with the frame. The locking block prevents the clip 1802from sliding on the frame 1002 once in its final position. FIG. 15Xbillustrates locking blocks 1807 a, 1807 b, 1807 c and 1807 dcorresponding to openings 1805 a, 1805 b, 1805 c and 1805 d.

The modified C-sliding member 1802 may also have a locking board member1812, As illustrated in FIGS. 15Xa and 15Xc the board member 1812connects to the clip member 1802 and extend in a shape similar to adiving board to form a flexible end 1814 opposing the connection withthe clip member. As illustrated in FIG. 15Xc the locking board 1812 hasextension an 1813 preconfigured to fit into a corresponding opening 1815in a locking position with the frame member 1002 when the clip slideinto its final position. The clip may be unlocked by lifting the freeend 1814 with a finger or instrument inserted into opening 1815.

As illustrated in FIG. 15Xa, the clip member 1802 may have a slidingadjustable tube 1820 that may be rotated for adjustment around a rod1825. The adjusting the tube allows the opposing part of the clip to bepositioned proximal to the tissue of the mouth. The rod 1825 has an endring 1826 preventing the clip from sliding off of the rod.

As illustrated in FIG. 15Xe the tube 1820 may have first inner prismpart 1821 and second inner cylinder part 1822 that fits thecorresponding parts on the rod when the clip is in its final position onthe frame. The clip is adjusted prior to insertion into the frame bysliding the clip on the rod so that the inner prism part of the tubewill rotate around the cylinder part of the rod into the desiredposition and slide it back into the prism part of the rod to preventfurther rotation once in the desired position. The inner prism part maybe any non-circular cross-section that prevents the rotation.

The rod 1825 has an extension 1826, FIG. 15Xa, corresponding topreconfigured surface 1827, FIG. 15Xb, of frame member 1002. The surface1827 prevents the clip from sliding in the extension 1826 direction oncethe frame and clip are in locked position.

Another example of a locking component connecting the back connector tothe rest of the assembly is a top-locking clip member. As illustrated inFIG. 15Ya, a clip member 1830 is two-pronged shape with first prong 1836a, second prong 1836 b and bar 1837 connecting the first and secondprongs together. As illustrated in FIG. 15Ya, FIG. 15Yb and FIG. 15Ycthe top-locking clip member 1830 has a top part 1831 with a hook-shapepart 1832 at an end for locking engagement with a preconfiguredcorresponding opening 1834 in the frame 1002. The clip member 1830further has a ring rotating around a first hinge 1833 a on the top partof the clip and second hinge 1833 b on the bar 1837 of the clip. Afterthe clip 1830 is engaged with the frame, the hook part 1832 is insertedinto its corresponding opening 1834 in the frame and the top part 1831is pressed on the opposing end of the hook part to rotate the ring 1835around the first and seconds hinges 1833 a and 1833 b into a lockingposition as the ring is distorted and active tension is created in thering to lock the engaged clip and frame together. The opening 1834 mayin some embodiments be hook shaped corresponding to the hook-shaped part1832 of the top part 1831.

Another example of a locking component connecting the back connector tothe rest of the assembly is a hinge clip member. As illustrated in FIG.15Za hinge clip member 1840 is two-pronged shape with a first prong 1846a, a second prong 1846 b and a hinge 1847 connecting the first andsecond prong together. The first prong 1846 a has a first extension1841, and the second prong 1846 b has a second extension 1842. The firstextension 1841 extends downward and inward towards the second extension.1842 The second extension 1842 extends downward and inward towards thefirst extension. 1841. FIG. 15Za also illustrates a removable clip 1850in active engagement with clip member 1840 and frame member 1002.

FIG. 15Zb is a top view of FIG. 15Za illustrating a hook shaped end 1844of the frame member 1002 rotating to engage an opening 1845 between thehinge 1847 and clip member 1840.

As illustrated in FIG. 15Zc, the removable clip 1850 has a generallyC-shaped and loop in the middle. The removable clip 1850 has a body1853, first extension, 1851 a, second extension 1851 b, and loop portion1852. Another embodiment of the removable clip would replace theC-shaped part by a ring. Another removable clip would only include aring. As illustrated in FIG. 15Zb, After the frame member 1002 engagesclip member 1840, the removable clip 1950 slides to engage both framemember 1002 and clip member 1840. The body part 1853 of clip 1850contacts the frame member 1002 in a preconfigured position preventingthe frame from rotating and disengaging the clip member 1840. Extensions1851 a and 1851 b of clip member 1850 engage clip prongs 1846 a and 1846b of clip 1840 respectively. The loop member 1852 of clip member 1850engages a preconfigured opening 1848 in the frame member 1002 preventingthe clip member 1850 from sliding and disengaging both frame member 1002and clip member 1840. The process may be reversed by lifting loop member1852.

Another example of a locking component connecting the back connector tothe rest of the assembly is a split-arrow clip member 1860. Asillustrated in FIG. 15Zd, the split-arrow clip member 1860 has atwo-prong shaped clip. The split-arrow clip member 1860 has a firstprong 1866 a and a second prong 1866 b. The first prong 1866 a has afirst protrusion 1864 a and a second protrusion 1865 a. The second prong1866 b has a first protrusion 1864 b and a second protrusion 1865 b. Thefirst protrusions 1864 a-b extend on the opposite side of the secondprotrusions 1865 a-b, so that a frame member 1002 may slide between themsuch that first protrusions 1864 a-b and second protrusions 1865 a-bengage opposite sides of the frame member 1002. Additionally, and towardthe base of the clip member 1860, the inner side of the first prong 1866a and second prong 1866 b curve to form protrusions 1863 a, 1863 bfollowed by openings 1862 a and 1862 b respectively.

The frame member 1002 has first half-arrow portion 1871 and secondhalf-arrow portion 1872 separated by opening 1875. The first and secondhalf-arrow portions 1871, 1872 have slots 1887 a, 1887 b respectively.As the half-arrow portions 1871 and 1872 slide between the protrusions1864 a 1865 a, 1864 b and 1865 b into protrusions 1863 a and 1863 b thehalf arrow 1871 and 1872 respectively bend into the opening 1875 andsnap into the openings 1862 a and 1862 b respectively, thus leading to alocking engagement between the clip member 1860 and frame member 1002,wherein protrusions 1863 a, 1863 b engage slots 1887 a, 1887 brespectively. A partially attached or separate block 1890 may beinserted in the opening 1875 to prevent first and second half-arrowportions 1871 and 1872 from bending toward the opening 1875, to furthersecure the frame member 1002 to the locking component 1860.

In an embodiment of the orthodontic assembly illustrated in FIGS. 16A-B,the orthodontic assembly 900 generally includes an arcuate U-shapedframe member 902 which via 3-D printing is adaptable to be conformed forpositioning about the lingual portion of the user's teeth T. Theorthodontic assembly further includes a tooth band assembly 950configured to receivably encompass a selected tooth or series of teeth,and an extension from the clip member 904 or frame member 902 configuredfor securing the frame member 902 to the tooth band assembly 950.

As illustrated in FIG. 16A, the tooth band assembly 950 generallyinclude a band member 954 which is adapted to receive the user's tooththerein. A lip member 952 extends generally outward from the band member954. An opening 956 is formed between the band member 954 and lip member952, and is configured to receive a portion of the clip member 904 orframe member 902 therein. As illustrated, the clip member 904 isremovably connectable to both the frame member 902 and the tooth bandassembly 950, and as such, fastens the frame member 902 to the toothband assembly 950.

As illustrated in FIG. 16B, the clip member 904 extends from the framemember 902 in a generally upward direction. The clip member 904 includesa base portion 920 which is connected to the frame member 902 and a headportion 922 having a zigzag or sinusoidal wave-like configuration whichmay simultaneously engages the inner surface 962 of the lip member 952and the outer surface 964 of the tooth band member 954 to provide asecure connection thereto.

As illustrated, multiple band assemblies 950 may be provided to engagemultiple teeth and multiple locations in the mouth to provide multiplepoints of connections for the frame member. Further, as illustrated inprevious embodiments, the clip members 904 may be removably connected tothe frame members or integrally formed with the frame members. Bandmember assembly 950, frame member 902 and clip member 904 may all bemanufactured via a variety of manufacturing techniques including but notlimited to 3D printing.

In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 17A and 17B, the orthodonticassembly 1000 includes a temporary anchorage device (“TAD”) frameassembly configured to be removably fastened to a palate portion P ofthe user's mouth using one or more fastening members 1046. Similar tothe previously described frame member 202 illustrated in FIG. 1B, theframe assembly has a generally U-shaped arcuate configuration, which isadaptable via the 3D printing or any other manufacturing process beconformed to the interior lingual surface of the selected user's mouth.

The frame assembly includes intermediate flexible or semi flexibleconnector members. Also similar to the aforementioned embodiments, theorthodontic assembly may include a variety of interchangeablecomponents, including but not limited to, one or more retainer members1012, one or more clip members 1004 or more integrally formed activeelements and one or more C-clasp members 1026.

The frame assembly member having a lower frame portion 1050 may includeone or more tab members 1042. The tab members 1042 may be positionedalong the inner edge of the lower frame portion 1050 of the frameassembly and as such, extends in a generally inward direction from theinner edge of the lower frame portion 1050. The tab member 1042 includesan opening 1044 configured to receive the fastening member 1046 therethrough such that the secure the assembly in the mouth.

As illustrated in FIG. 17B, each TAD (temporary anchorage device)fastening member 1046 generally includes a shaft portion 1048 secured inthe palatal bone and head portion 1052 for securely fastening the member1042 of the frame assembly to TAD. It is contemplated that the frameassembly may include a plurality of tab members 1042, thus permittingthe orthodontic assembly to be securely fastened to the palate of theuser's mouth at multiple locations.

Some of the structures described earlier with clip members may also beused with aligners. As illustrated in FIG. 18A, 3D printed aligners mayinclude bristles 1811, support structures for the bristles 1812 andsuction cups 1821 and 1822.

Bristles 1811 may be used on any surface area opposing a tooth, on theentire surface of a tooth, or on more than one surface of a tooth. Theshape, number, and size of the bristles 1811 may be configured dependingon the function of the bristles 1811. Further, the bristles 1811 may beoriented in multiple directions to provide a desired directions force onthe tooth. Support structures 1812 may prevent excessive compression ofthe bristles 1811 and to create the ideal geometry for the bristle 1811to function with vibrating devices.

The bristles 1811 may also be used with bonded components 1813 with amicro structure such as the saw tooth shaped bonded component mentionedearlier in FIGS. 7E-F.

The directions of the bristles 1811 may vary depending on the desiredtooth movement especially when used with vibration devices such as theAcceledent vibrator. Curved bristles in the same direction asillustrated on 1805 part of the aligner may accelerate the movement ofthe tooth toward the back of the mouth. Curved bristles in opposingdirections in opposing surfaces of the tooth may accelerate the rotationof tooth 1803.

Bristles may also be incorporated into bonded component 1815 opposingthe inner surface of the aligner. Support structures 1816 may also beused on the bonded component 1815 to provide ideal contact of thebristles 1811 when in operative engagement with the aligner 18] Suctioncups may also be used with the 3D printed aligner suction cups 1821 maybe directly in operative engagement with the tooth structure. Suctionscup 1822 may be in contact with bonded component 1823 on the toothstructure. The use of suctions cups provides for a secure connection tothe tooth allowing for a better transfer of forces from the aligner 18the tooth.

As illustrated in FIG. 18B bristles or suction cup structure may beconfigured in a grid 1833, mesh 1832 or U shape slit 1831 in thealigner. The topology and geometry of the aligner may defined by a CADdesign to implement a U shape slit, mesh or grid structure or anystructure that utilize the force of occlusion or when used withvibrating devices to facilitate tooth movement. The U shape slit, meshor grid structure 1832 may be used to provide strength or flexibility,as needed, with the bristles or suction cups. This may be especiallyimportant when used with vibrating device. The U shape slit may have anoverlapping scale shape structure or outward pad extensions on the outersurface of the aligner or assembly, opposing the bristles or innerstructures of the aligner or assembly on one side, and in direct contactwith the tissue and muscles of the mouth on the other side. The scale oroutward pad extension maximize the surface contact with the tissue andmuscles of the mouth and therefore the pressure and force transmitted tothe bristles and inner structures of the aligner or assembly.

FIG. 18C illustrates a cross-sectional view of an aligner 18 thebristles 1811 and support structure 1812 in operative engagement with atooth. The shape of the top occlusal part of the aligner may be designedto create extensions 1841 to allow the lower part of the aligner 18 beseated toward the tooth when the top of the aligner 18 in active contactwith the opposing teeth for optimal distribution of force from theopposing teeth to the bristles 1811 of the aligners and to allow theforce of occlusion to facilitate tooth movement.

3D printing allows for the design and manufacturing of the assembly oraligner to utilize vibrations, lateral side force from the muscle in themouth, and the natural or forced intermittent contact of teeth oraligners in the mouth to move the teeth in predetermined directions. The3D designs allow for specific structures, such as but not limited to thebristles, grid structures, and U shape slits, in the printed aligner orassembly to transfer vibration generated from a vibrating appliance, avertical force generated from occlusion, or lateral side force from themuscles in the mouth into a vertical, horizontal or any combinationforces the move teeth in predetermine directions. Such forces mayinclude vibration generated from the vibrating appliance that may beredirected into vertical, horizontal, or a combination forces. Further,the vertical force generated from the occlusion may be redirected intovertical, horizontal, or a combination forces, or the lateral horizontalforces generated from the muscles surrounding the teeth may beredirected into vertical, horizontal, or a combination forces to movethe teeth in predetermined directions. In addition to the bristles andsuction cups mentioned earlier, other micro and nano structures such ashooks and loop fasteners, mushroom fasteners, and saw tooth shapedstructures described earlier may be used within the aligner 18]

As illustrated in FIG. 18D, bristles 1853 may be used on a sleeve 1850.The sleeve 1850 may have an opening 1851 for the insertion into theintra oral part 1855 of a vibrating device 1856. Therefore when thesleeve 1850 and the intra oral part 1855 are placed in the mouth of thepatient, the bristles 1853 may be in direct contact with the teeth whenused with conventional braces. This may provide extra benefit in movingthe teeth in a desired direction. The bristles 1853 may be formed toprovide the desired forces on the various teeth to achieve a desiredtreatment for each tooth.

The bristles can be straight, curved, the same length, a differentlength, or any shape and size and any combination of these.

The bristles can be used on the clip, connected directly to the frame,used in a bonded attachment (bracket) on the teeth, or incorporated intoclear aligners. The bristles may be used on the inner side of the clearaligner system opposing at least a portion of one surface of that tooth,and the aligner can be manufactured using 3D printing. Bristles may alsobe added to the aligner through a window in the aligner. An attachmentwith the bristles may be inserted in the window to be placed intocontact with a tooth. Bristles may also be added to the aligner througha variety of manufacturing methods and combinations.

The bristles may be used with vibrating devices available in the market,such as those manufactured by Acceledent. The vibration from thevibrating device allow the bristles to vibrate and to place anintermittent pulsating forces on the tooth to facilitate tooth movement.

The shape and direction of the bristles may be configured according tothe predetermined desired tooth movement of the teeth. Additionally, thebristles may be incorporated into the intra oral part of the vibratingdevice or into a U or Y shape sleeve device that slides to the U or Yshape intraoral part of the vibrating device. The bristles on the sleevemay be in contact with at least part of one surface of the tooth. Thesleeves may be customized to each individual patient and may also beused with traditional braces

The shape of the clear aligners may be changed when used with bristlesto utilize the force of occlusion and the force of muscles surroundingthe teeth that act to compress then release the bending bristle. Thechange in the design may include but not limited to extending theocclusal side of the aligners beyond the curvature of the tooth so thatany pressure from the force of occlusion on that tooth will translate topressure on the entire buccal or lingual surfaces of the tooth orutilizing a mesh opening or U shape slits to provide additionalflexibility when used with vibration device.

Suction cups can be used in clips, the frame of the assembly, retainers,or clear aligners for retention or to facilitate tooth movement.

When suction cups are used in clips or the frame of a retainer orassembly, they may engage the tooth surface directly or a bondedattachment of the tooth. The bonded attachment may have a disc shapeconcave middle part and convex borders. The suction cup engages thecorresponding curvature of the bonded attachment. Multiple suction cupsmay be used directly on the tooth surface or with the bonded attachmenton the tooth.

When used with aligners, suction cups may be used one surface of atooth, more than one surface of a tooth, multiples surfaces of theteeth, or in combination with other extension on the aligner such asbristles. The suction cups may be one or a plurality of suction cupscovering small part of the tooth or the entire surface of the tooth. Amesh design in the aligner may be used with suction cups.

To increase the function and reduce the size of the active or retentivemembers of the assembly or aligners, micro and nano structures may beused including but not limited to micro and nano bristles, micro andnano suction cups, micro interlocking mushroom fasteners, micro or nanoloops and hooks fasteners, and micro or nano saw tooth shapedstructures.

Various methods are described above for attaching various components ofthe orthodontic assembly to one another. It is noted that examples ofspecific attachment structures for specific components, may be used forconnecting any of the components of the orthodontic assembly to oneanother. For example the various structures and methods for attachingthe clip members to the frame, may be used to attach the clip members tothe labial bow or the frame to the labial bow. Other examples arereadily recognizable.

The various components of the assembly may be labeled with variousindicators. These indicators may include numbers, arrows, signs,letters, or combinations thereof. These indicators may be used forlabelling purposes and facilitate the assembly of the components duringthe treatment. Such indicators may be applied during the manufacture ofthe components, for example, during 3D printing. The software used tomap the users mouth, define the specific treatment, and produce thevarious components to carry out the treatment, may apply such labels toassist in the assembly of the orthodontic assembly.

3-D printing may be used to fabricate any of the various componentsdescribed above. 3-D printing allows for vary specific shapes anddesigns to be manufactured based upon a patients specific needs. Thecomponents can be printed using various materials that are appropriatefor the specific application. Further, 3-D printing allows forcomponents having shapes and designs that would be difficult or veryexpensive to manufacture using other methods. Further, variouscombinations of traditionally used acrylic parts, 3D printed, milled orinjection molding made parts in addition to 3D printed polymeric ormetallic components may all be used in the orthodontic assembly.

Though the various embodiments have been described in detail withparticular reference to certain aspects thereof, it should be understoodthat the invention is capable of other embodiments and its details arecapable of modifications in various obvious respects. As is readilyapparent to those skilled in the art, variations and modifications canbe affected while remaining within the spirit and scope of theinvention. Accordingly, the foregoing disclosure, description, andfigures are for illustrative purposes only and do not in any way limitthe invention, which is defined only by the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A removable orthodontic assembly to be used in a user's mouth, comprising: a frame member configured to be removably positioned proximate to at least a lingual portion of the user's teeth; a labial bow member configured to be removably positioned proximate to at least a labial portion of the user's teeth; a removable first connector member configured to reversibly connect a first side of the frame member to a first side of the labial bow member and reversibly lock the first side of the frame member to the first side of the labial bow member, the removable first connector comprising a first portion positioned proximate to the lingual portion of the user's teeth and a second portion positioned proximate the labial portion of the user's teeth and an orthodontic locking-clip configured to reversibly clip to the frame member; and a second connector member configured to reversibly connect a second side of the frame member to a second side of the labial bow member and reversibly lock the second side of the frame member to the second side of the labial bow member, the second side of the frame member being opposite to the first side of the frame member and the second side of the labial bow member being opposite to the first side of the labial bow member, wherein the labial bow member may be unlocked from the first connector member and second connector member and removed from the assembly.
 2. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein the locking clip of the first connector member is configured to reversibly lock to the first side of the frame member using a snap-fit locking connection.
 3. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein the labial bow member further comprises a first extension configured to engage a tooth.
 4. The orthodontic assembly of claim 1, wherein the first connector member comprises a second locking clip configured to reversibly clip to the labial bow member and the first connector member may be unlocked from the labial bow member and frame member and removed from the assembly.
 5. The orthodontic assembly of claim 4, wherein the second locking clip of the first connector member is a C-shaped locking clip.
 6. The orthodontic assembly of claim 5, wherein the C-shaped locking-clip of the first connector member is configured to reversibly lock to the first side of the labial bow member using a snap-fit locking connection. 